Language/Russian/Vocabulary/Drinks

Russian Vocabulary - Drinks

Hi Russian learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will learn vocabulary related to drinks. Whether it's hot or cold outside, drinks are always a must. Haven't you noticed that you can learn a lot about a country's culture by looking at its drinking habits? Russians are no exception! So, let's dive into the world of Russian beverages.
Don't forget, to improve your Russian Vocabulary, you can also use the Polyglot Club website. Find native speakers and ask them any questions!

Alcohol

Russians love to drink, that's for sure! And they love their drinks strong. Vodka is probably the most famous Russian drink, but it's not the only one!

Russian	Pronunciation	English
Водка	Vodka	Vodka
Текила	Tekila	Tequila
Виски	Viski	Whiskey
Ликер	Liker	Liqueur
Вино	Vino	Wine
Пиво	Pivo	Beer
Шнапс	Shnaps	Schnapps
Коньяк	Kon'yak	Cognac

Here is how you can order drinks at a Russian bar:

• Person 1: Привет! (Hello!)
• Person 2: Здравствуйте! Как я могу вам помочь? (Hello! How can I help you?)
• Person 1: Я бы хотел стакан водки, пожалуйста. (I'd like a glass of vodka, please.)
• Person 2: Конечно! А что на счет закуски? (Sure thing! And what about a snack?)

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Russians also enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, especially tea. Drinking tea is a common habit in Russia, where it's not just a beverage but also a symbol of hospitality and a way to socialize. Tea is usually served with sweets and snacks like jams, biscuits, and cakes.

Russian	Pronunciation	English
Чай	Chay	Tea
Кофе	Kofe	Coffee
Сок	Sok	Juice
Вода	Voda	Water

Here is a dialogue for ordering tea in a Russian café:

• Person 1: Здравствуйте! Что вы порекомендуете? (Hello! What do you recommend?)
• Person 2: Здесь у нас очень хороший ассортимент чая. Вам нравятся фруктовые вкусы, или предпочитаете классику? (We have a great selection of tea here. Do you like fruity flavors, or do you prefer classics?)
• Person 1: Я бы хотел крепкий черный чай, пожалуйста. (I'd like a strong black tea, please.)
• Person 2: Как насчет сладостей? У нас есть домашние пироги и печенья. (What about sweets? We have homemade cakes and biscuits.)

Did you know that Russians also love fermented beverages like kvass and kefir? These drinks are more common in rural areas, and they are known for their health benefits.

Conclusion

Drinks are an essential part of Russian culture, from the strong vodka to the soothing tea. Learning vocabulary related to drinks is not only practical, but it also helps you understand the Russian way of life. Keep practicing, and you'll soon be able to order your favorite drink like a native Russian speaker.
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎

Sources

- What are the most popular fermented drinks in the Russian household? - Russian Vocabulary - Drinks - A Brief History of Russian Drinking Culture

Finished this lesson? Check out these related lessons: Clothes, Coffee, Parts of the Body & Hospital.

Other Lessons

• Russian idioms
• How to Say Good Bye
• Car
• School
• Coffee
• Nature
• Verbs related to speaking
• Colors
• House
• Days of the Week

Sources

• Russian Words: Food and Drink
• Food and Drink in Russian