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русский
полиция — meaning in English: police
politsiya · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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police
полиция
politsiya
штраф
shtraf
война
voyna
Дверь
Dver'
парк
park
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neutral
very common
Usage
The word 'полиция' is commonly used in everyday conversations when discussing law enforcement, safety issues, or reporting incidents. For example, if someone witnesses a crime or needs assistance, they might say, 'Я вызвал полицию' (I called the police). It’s also frequently seen in news reports or public announcements related to crime and safety.
Synonyms & nuances
'Полиция' specifically refers to the official law enforcement body, while words like 'охранник' (guard) or 'жандарм' (gendarme) convey different roles within security. You would choose 'полиция' when discussing formal law enforcement duties, as opposed to private security or military police.
Culture
The word 'полиция' derives from the Greek word 'polis,' meaning city, which reflects the police's role in maintaining order in urban areas. Interestingly, the structure and function of the Russian police have evolved over centuries, influenced by various political regimes, from the Tsarist era to the Soviet Union, and into contemporary Russia. This history gives the term a profound significance in discussions about governance and civil rights.
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