I'm learning русский

молитва — meaning in English: prayer

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

Guess the translation for prayer
претензии
pretenzii
сервер
server
молитва
molitva
компьютер
komp'yuter
поверхность
poverkhnost'
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
formal common
Usage
Native Russian speakers commonly use the word 'молитва' in both religious and spiritual contexts. For instance, during Orthodox Christian services, you might hear this word when discussing prayers for the deceased or community gatherings. Additionally, individuals may use 'молитва' in casual conversations about personal struggles, reflecting on the importance of prayer in their daily lives.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'просьба' (prośba), which translates to 'request' or 'plea.' While 'молитва' refers specifically to spiritual prayers, 'просьба' can be used in broader contexts, such as asking someone for help. You would choose 'молитва' when you want to convey a sense of solemnity or devotion.
Culture
'Молитва' has roots in Old Church Slavonic, which is a liturgical language derived from Slavic languages. The practice of prayer in Russia is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions, especially within the Russian Orthodox Church, where specific prayers are recited for various occasions. Interestingly, the word also extends metaphorically to mean a wish or hope, showcasing its versatility in everyday language.
FAQ
Q.What does 'молитва' mean in English?
'Молитва' translates to 'prayer' in English, referring to the act of communicating with a deity or expressing one's thoughts and desires in a spiritual context.
Q.How do you pronounce 'молитва' correctly?
'Молитва' is pronounced as 'molitva,' with the emphasis on the second syllable. To get it right, practice saying it slowly, focusing on the 'tva' sound at the end.
Q.Can 'молитва' be used in everyday conversations?
Yes, 'молитва' can be used outside of strictly religious contexts. People may refer to it when discussing personal hopes or wishes, making it applicable in various situations.
Learn russian with Maspeak →
Russian 2000