парень — meaning in English: guy

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

Guess the translation for guy

проход

prokhod

тени

teni

парень

paren'

отель

otel'

удержание

uderzhaniye

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Russian for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

informal very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'парень' in casual conversations, often when referring to male friends or acquaintances. For instance, you might hear it in a discussion among friends about a new 'парень' someone is dating or while hanging out at a café with a group of guys.

Synonyms & nuances

'Парень' is often compared to 'молодой человек' (young man), which is more formal. While 'парень' implies a more casual and friendly tone, 'молодой человек' can be used in polite or formal conversations, making 'парень' the go-to choice in relaxed settings.

Culture

'Парень' has its roots in the Old Russian word 'парен', which means 'young man' or 'boy'. Its usage reflects the informal and friendly nature of Russian culture, where terms of endearment or familiarity are often employed even among acquaintances. Interestingly, in different regions of Russia, the nuances of how 'парень' is used can vary, sometimes overlapping with local dialects.

FAQ

Q.What does the Russian word 'парень' mean in English?

'Парень' translates to 'guy' or 'boy' in English. It's used informally to refer to a young man or male friend.

Q.How do you use 'парень' in a sentence?

An example sentence would be, 'Этот парень очень дружелюбный,' which means 'This guy is very friendly.' You can use it in various contexts to describe a young man.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'парень'?

One common mistake is using 'парень' in overly formal situations. Remember, 'парень' is informal, so it's best avoided in formal settings or when addressing someone respectfully.

Learn russian with Maspeak →

Russian 2000