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русский
Жаль, — meaning in English: It's a pity,
Zhal', · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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pity
раб
rab
сон
son
путешествие
puteshestviye
Разрушение
Razrusheniye
Жаль,
Zhal',
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informal
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'Жаль' in everyday conversations to express disappointment about missed opportunities or unfortunate situations. For instance, when a friend cancels plans at the last minute, one might say, 'Жаль, мы так долго ждали,' meaning 'It's a pity, we were looking forward to this.' It's commonly used in informal settings, making it an essential expression in casual chats.
Synonyms & nuances
'Жаль' can be closely related to the word 'сожаление' (sorrow or regret), but while 'сожаление' is more formal and often used in written contexts, 'жаль' fits seamlessly into spoken dialogue, making it feel more personal and immediate. You would choose 'жаль' in an informal context, while 'сожаление' might appear in a more serious discussion.
Culture
'Жаль' has roots in the Old Slavic word 'жалити,' which means 'to grieve or to feel sorrow.' In Russian culture, expressing feelings of pity or regret is quite common, reflecting the emotional depth valued in personal relationships. Interestingly, using 'жаль' can serve as a social lubricant, allowing for a nuanced way to connect with others over shared disappointments.
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