Russian grammar reference

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A1Russian

Russian Questions

Core question words and yes/no question patterns. Adapted for Russian. This Russian reference focuses on recognition, lookup, and practical reading rather than drills.

Rule 1: Use question words

Use this section to use question words in Russian. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.

Rule 2: Read yes/no questions

Use this section to read yes/no questions in Russian. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.

Rule 3: Notice intonation and word order

Use this section to notice intonation and word order in Russian. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.

Examples

Куда ты идёшь?

Where are you going?

Почему ты учишь русский?

Why are you learning Russian?

Russian lookup checklist

QuestionWhat to check
MeaningWhat does the form contribute to the sentence?
AgreementDoes it match person, number, gender, case, or tense?
PositionDoes placement change emphasis or grammatical role?

Common Mistakes

  • Do not translate the Russian pattern word-for-word from English.
  • Check the whole phrase before deciding what a single form means.
  • Watch for register: a correct written form can sound too formal in casual speech.

Lookup Tips

  • Start with the example closest to your sentence.
  • Identify the trigger word or ending before memorizing a rule.
  • Save the topic as a focus if you expect to revisit it.