In this guide, we will explore how to express different times of the day in Russian. Whether you want to know how to tell time in a formal or informal setting, this comprehensive guide will provide you with useful tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Expressing Time in Formal Settings
When speaking in a formal context, such as during business meetings or official events, it is important to use the correct form of time expressions. Here are some key phrases to help you:
1.1 Saying the Hours
When indicating the hours, use the word “час” (chas) followed by the number.
- Example: Часовая стрелка указывает третий час. (The hour hand points at three o’clock.)
1.2 Describing Minutes
To express minutes, use the word “минута” (minuta) followed by the number.
- Example: Она придет к десяти минутам одиннадцатого. (She will come at ten minutes to eleven.)
1.3 Speaking About Exact Time
To convey the exact time, combine the above phrases using the preposition “и” (i) to join the hour and minutes together.
- Example: Встреча начнется в четыре часа двадцать минут. (The meeting will start at four twenty.)
2. Informal Ways to Express Time
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use less formal expressions for telling time. Here are some commonly used phrases:
2.1 Using “Сколько времени?” (Skol’ko vremeni?)
A common informal way to ask for the time is by saying “Сколько времени?” which means “What time is it?”
- Example: Сколько времени? Пять вечера. (What time is it? Five in the evening.)
2.2 “Полдень” (Polden’) and “Полночь” (Polnoch’)
Instead of using exact hours, you can say “полдень” or “полночь” to refer to noon and midnight, respectively.
- Example: Встречаемся в полдень у ресторана. (Let’s meet at noon near the restaurant.)
3. Regional Variations
Russian is a vast language with regional variations. While the formal and informal ways explained above are commonly understood across the country, some regions have unique ways of expressing time. Here is an interesting regional variation:
3.1 The “Одиннадцать Часов” Clock in Yaroslavl
In the city of Yaroslavl, there is a famous clock called “Одиннадцать Часов” (Eleven Hours) where the number 12 is replaced with 11. This unique clock dates back to historical events and represents the city’s rich heritage.
Example: Встречайте меня возле “Одиннадцать Часов” в центре города. (Meet me near the “Eleven Hours” clock in the city center.)
Conclusion
By now, you should be familiar with various ways to express time in Russian. In formal settings, use phrases like “час” (chas) and “минута” (minuta) to denote hours and minutes, respectively, while informal conversations can incorporate phrases like “Сколько времени?” (Skol’ko vremeni?). Remember, regional variations, such as the “Одиннадцать Часов” clock in Yaroslavl, can add a touch of culture to your understanding of how time is expressed in Russian.
Practice using these phrases, and soon enough, telling time in Russian will become second nature to you. Enjoy your language journey!
