что вам нужно?
chto vam nuzhno?
The English phrase "what do you need?" is translated into Russian as что вам нужно? (chto vam nuzhno?)
This phrase is a question used to ask someone what item or assistance they require.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, что вам нужно? translates to "what to you is necessary?", where нужно functions as a predicate meaning "is necessary".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some parts of Russia, people might use Чего тебе надо? instead of Что тебе нужно? when speaking informally.
How do you pronounce it?
chto vam nuzhno?
Did you know?
- In a retail setting, a clerk might skip the phrase entirely and simply say слушаю ('I am listening') to ask what you need.
- While it translates to 'what do you need', saying Чего тебе надо? in a certain aggressive tone is a common way to challenge someone in a street confrontation.
- The word нужно is closely related to the word нужда, which refers to extreme poverty or dire destitution.
Examples in context
- Скажите, что вам нужно?Skazhite, chto vam nuzhno?Tell me, what do you need?
Example conversation
Anastasia is working at a store and helps Dmitry.
- Дмитрий DmitryДобрый день!Dobryy den'!Good afternoon!
- Анастасия AnastasiaЗдравствуйте! Что вам нужно?Zdravstvuyte! Chto vam nuzhno?Hello! What do you need?
- Дмитрий DmitryМне нужна новая сумка.Mne nuzhna novaya sumka.I need a new bag.
- Анастасия AnastasiaПойдемте, я покажу вам.Poydete, ya pokazhu vam.Come with me, I will show you.
