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жизнь — meaning in English: a life

zhizn' · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for life
жизнь
zhizn'
Введение
Vvedeniye
подключение
podklyucheniye
мое
moye
Идеология
Ideologiya
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'жизнь' in a variety of contexts, from discussing their everyday experiences to more philosophical conversations about the meaning of life. For instance, a friend might say, 'Как ты проводишь свою жизнь?' (How do you spend your life?) during a casual coffee chat, or it could appear in a more formal discussion about life choices in a lecture setting.
Synonyms & nuances
'жизнь' denotes life in its broadest sense, encompassing the biological, emotional, and experiential aspects. In contrast, words like 'существование' (existence) may imply a more abstract or philosophical state, while 'бытие' (being) has a more existential connotation. You'd choose 'жизнь' when discussing personal experiences or vitality.
Culture
'жизнь' is derived from the Old Church Slavonic word 'жизнь' (zhizn'), which indicates a deep connection to Eastern Slavic languages. In Russian culture, discussions about 'жизнь' are often intertwined with literature and philosophy, reflecting the rich tapestry of Russian thought and sentiment about existence. A popular Russian saying is 'жизнь — это как река' (life is like a river), highlighting its ever-changing nature.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of 'жизнь' in English?
'жизнь' translates to 'life' in English, referring to the state of being alive or the experiences that constitute living. It's a fundamental term used in everyday conversations.
Q.How do you use 'жизнь' in a sentence?
You can use 'жизнь' in various contexts, such as 'Я люблю свою жизнь' (I love my life) or 'Жизнь полна сюрпризов' (Life is full of surprises).
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'жизнь'?
A common mistake is confusing 'жизнь' with 'существование'. While both refer to life, 'жизнь' is used more for the lived experience, whereas 'существование' can refer to mere existence.
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