машина — meaning in English: a car

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

Guess the translation for machine

Предложение

Predlozheniye

Измерение

Izmereniye

Конечно

Konechno

Метод

Metod

машина

mashina

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'машина' in everyday conversations, such as discussing plans for a road trip or describing someone's vehicle. You might hear it at a car dealership, during a car repair discussion, or even when chatting about a friend's new car.

Synonyms & nuances

'Автомобиль' is a more formal term for 'car', often used in legal or technical contexts, whereas 'машина' is more casual and can refer to any type of machine, not just vehicles. You would choose 'машина' in everyday conversation when talking to friends or family.

Culture

'Машина' has its roots in the French word 'machine', which refers to a mechanical device. In Russia, cars have a special cultural significance; they symbolize freedom and mobility, especially since the introduction of the first Soviet cars in the mid-20th century, like the Moskvitch, which became a beloved icon of personal transport.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of машина in Russian?

The plural form is 'машины'. You would use this when talking about multiple cars, for example, 'У нас есть три машины' (We have three cars).

Q.Can машина refer to vehicles other than cars?

Yes, while 'машина' primarily means 'car', it can also refer to any type of machinery or vehicle, depending on the context. For example, it can be used to describe trucks, buses, or even machinery in a factory.

Q.Is the word машина used in formal writing?

Yes, 'машина' can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal documents, 'автомобиль' might be preferred when referring specifically to cars.

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