5 Russian words that changed their meaning recently
Many words, including simple and common ones, are acquiring new meanings, primarily in colloquial speech.
In modern Russian, there are several trends that have become particularly prominent recently, especially due to online communication.
1. Душный
Previously, the word ‘душный’ (‘dushny’) meant ‘stuffy, with stale air that makes breathing difficult’ or ‘saturated with vapors, making breathing difficult’. But now, this word has become very popular in a different sense. It’s used to describe a person who says boring things or nitpicks about minor details.
2. Токсичный
Similarly, ‘токсичный’ (‘toksichny’) is now used not only to describe toxic, poisonous substances, but also for toxic people, who tend to manipulate others and evoke negative emotions in those around them.
3. Достать
The ‘достать’ (‘dostat’) verb can now also refer to a person who annoys you, not just taking something off a shelf or out of a drawer.
4. Зайти
The ‘зайти’ (‘zaiti’) verb can mean to come in, to visit a friend for tea, but also it can mean that a movie or a book went down well, ie. you liked it.
5. Напрягать
You can ‘напрягать’ (‘napryagat’) – strain – your muscles. Or you can ‘напрягать’ a colleague, i.e. put them on edge.
According to experts from Gramota.ru (Грамота.ру), this process of new meanings and contexts emerging for well-known words is set to continue. Be sure to check back for more updates!
