Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Cafe'

English Word: Cafe

Key Russian Translations:

• кафе [ˈkafɛ] - [Neutral, Commonly Used]

Frequency: High

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner)

Pronunciation (Russian):

кафе: [ˈkafɛ]

Note on кафе: The stress falls on the first syllable, which is typical for many borrowed words in Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A place to eat or drink (general term for a cafe)

Translation(s) & Context:

• кафе - Used to refer to a casual dining place or coffee shop, often serving light meals and drinks.

Usage Examples:

• Мы встретимся в кафе через час.

  We will meet at the cafe in an hour.

• Это кафе славится своими десертами.

  This cafe is famous for its desserts.

• В центре города много уютных кафе.

  There are many cozy cafes in the city center.

• Я заказал кофе в кафе.

  I ordered coffee at the cafe.

• Кафе работает до полуночи.

  The cafe is open until midnight.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

The word кафе is a neuter noun in Russian and does not change form based on gender or number (it is indeclinable, a common trait for many borrowed words). It remains "кафе" in all cases and numbers.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms:

• кофейня (more specific to coffee shops)
• ресторанчик (small restaurant, less formal)

Note: "кофейня" emphasizes coffee, while "ресторанчик" may imply a place with a broader menu.

Antonyms:

• ресторан (a full-scale restaurant, as opposed to a casual cafe)

Related Phrases:

• кафе на углу - "cafe on the corner" (refers to a nearby or specific location)
• встретиться в кафе - "to meet at a cafe" (common way to arrange meetings)
• кафе с террасой - "cafe with a terrace" (describes outdoor seating)

Usage Notes:

• The Russian word "кафе" is a direct borrowing from French and is widely understood across all Russian-speaking regions. It is the most common and neutral term for a cafe.
• Unlike in English, "кафе" can sometimes imply a broader range of establishments, including small diners or bistros, not just coffee shops.
• Since "кафе" is indeclinable, it does not change form in different grammatical cases, which makes it easier for learners to use in sentences.

Common Errors:

• Error: Attempting to decline "кафе" as a regular Russian noun (e.g., saying "кафы" for genitive). Correct Usage: Always use "кафе" regardless of the case. For example, "Я иду в кафе" (I’m going to the cafe), not "в кафу".
• Error: Confusing "кафе" with "кофейня". While both can mean "cafe", "кофейня" specifically emphasizes coffee and is often used for modern or specialty coffee shops. For general use, stick to "кафе".

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, cafes ("кафе") are popular social spots, especially in urban areas. They often serve as places for casual meetings, dates, or quick meals. During Soviet times, "кафе" might have referred to simpler establishments with limited menus, but today, they vary widely in style and offerings, much like in the West.

Related Concepts:

• ресторан (restaurant)
• бар (bar)
• кофейня (coffee shop)
• столовая (canteen or diner)