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русский
см — meaning in English: cm
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Guess the translation for
cm
болезнь
bolezn'
водитель
voditel'
см
sm
пресс
press
дух
dukh
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technical
very common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'см' when discussing measurements in various contexts, such as when shopping for furniture, measuring fabric for sewing, or while participating in sports where height or distance measurements are important. For example, you might hear someone say, 'Этот стол 100 см в длину' (This table is 100 cm long) when describing dimensions.
Synonyms & nuances
'см' specifically refers to centimeters, which are a metric unit of length, while 'дюйм' refers to inches in the imperial system. When discussing dimensions in a scientific or technical context in Russia, 'см' is the go-to measurement, as it aligns with global standards.
Culture
'см' is the abbreviation for 'сантиметр' (centimeter), which is derived from the Latin 'centum' meaning 'hundred' and 'metrum' meaning 'measure'. In everyday life, Russians often use centimeters instead of inches or feet, reflecting the metric system's widespread adoption in the country since the early 20th century. This preference is not just practical; it's deeply embedded in the education system, where students learn measurements in centimeters from an early age.
FAQ
