Незнакомец — meaning in English: Stranger

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

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Большинство

Bol'shinstvo

Незнакомец

Neznakomets

обмен

obmen

лицо

litso

занавес

zanaves

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'незнакомец' when referring to a person they do not know in social settings, such as at a party or in public transportation. For example, someone might say, 'Я встретил незнакомца в метро,' meaning 'I met a stranger on the subway.' It's also common in stories or discussions about encounters with unfamiliar people.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'чужой' (chuzhoy), which also means 'foreigner' or 'someone not belonging.' However, 'незнакомец' specifically refers to a stranger you have never met, while 'чужой' often implies a sense of alienation or otherness, making it more context-specific.

Culture

'Незнакомец' is derived from the verb 'знать' which means 'to know.' Interestingly, the concept of a stranger has been a significant theme in Russian literature, often symbolizing the unknown and the human experience of isolation. This word captures the essence of both fear and curiosity toward the unfamiliar, reflecting deeper societal themes.

FAQ

Q.What does the word незнакомец mean?

'Незнакомец' translates to 'stranger' in English, referring to someone unknown or unfamiliar. It's commonly used in everyday conversations.

Q.How do you use незнакомец in a sentence?

You can use 'незнакомец' in sentences like, 'Незнакомец подошёл ко мне на улице,' meaning 'A stranger approached me on the street.' This usage highlights the sudden encounter with someone unknown.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using незнакомец?

A common mistake is confusing 'незнакомец' with 'чужой.' While both refer to someone not known, 'незнакомец' is specifically about strangers, whereas 'чужой' implies a sense of being an outsider or foreigner.

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