Grammar Tip

Modals In First Conditional Sentences In first conditionals we can also use modal verbs (other than will) in the main clause. Different modal verbs have different meanings.  Examples: 1. If you ask George, he may/might be able to help you. — Если вы попросите Джорджа, он, может быть, сможет помочь. (Возможность)  2. You can/may leave…

achievement (n.)

Today’s Word of the Day Is: achievement (n.) Transcription: [əˈtʃiːv.mənt] Russian Translation: достижение, успех Definition: something very good and difficult that you have succeeded in doing, and that therefore gives you a feeling of satisfaction Examples: 1. He was very proud when his daughter received a commendation for her achievement. 2. This is a truly…

It’s Good To (Car) Share

Why Moscow residents are crazy about the service Many Muscovites (москвичи) don’t trust taxi drivers, claiming some of them choose longer routes to charge extra, or simply because they don’t know the city well enough. Car sharing gives the pleasure of driving oneself while being able to choose the best route (маршрут, дорога).In contrast to…

Business Communication Skills Tip

The Difference Between American and Russian Cultures in Business Communication Style Russian businesspeople place greater emphasis on the spoken word than do professionals in the United States. While American businesspeople do much of their business via written communication such as email, letter or fax, Russian professionals prefer to hear things directly from people they trust.…

Grammar Tip

First Conditional Sentences if + present simple, … will + infinitive First conditionals are used to talk about things which might happen in the future.  Example: If I have enough money, I’ll buy a new house with a swimming pool. — Если у меня будет достаточно денег, я куплю новый дом с бассейном. Although we…

significant (adj.)

Today’s Word of the Day Is: significant (adj.) Transcription: [sɪɡˈnɪf.ɪ.kənt] Russian Translation: существенный, значительный, важный Definition: 1. Very large, important or noticeable. 2. Having a special meaning that only other people understand. Examples: 1. There has been some significant progress. 2. The look he gave her seemed to be significant. Synonyms: important, meaningful, considerable

September 1 – Knowledge Day In Russia

Another academic year has begun New school year in Russia begins on Knowledge Day (День Знаний) – September 1. This, undoubtedly, is one of the brightest events in the life of every Russian. For students and their parents, this holiday is associated with a school assembly (линейка), where the school principal (директор школы) gives a solemn speech,…

Business Communication Skills Tip

Business Dinner Etiquette – Food and Drinks A business dinner is an excellent way to build working relationships. The relaxed atmosphere of a business dinner may make your guests more receptive (открытый, восприимчивый) to a sales pitch (презентация товара) or business proposal than they would be in an office. Understanding how to hold effective dinner…

Grammar Tip

The Use of Zero Conditional Sentences We use zero conditional sentences to describe habits and regular actions. In the if-clause usually the present simple or the present continuous tense is used.  Examples: 1. When Susan is feeling happy, she dances. — Когда Сьюзан чувствует себя счастливой, она танцует. 2. If I miss the train, I…

demanding (adj.)

Today’s Word of the Day Is: “demanding” (adj.) Transcription: [dɪˈmɑːn.dɪŋ] Russian Translation: трудоемкий, затратный, строгий Definition: needing a lot of attention, effort, or time Examples: 1. I like a nice light novel to read when I’m on holiday – nothing too demanding. 2. Police work is physically demanding and stressful. Synonyms: difficult, complicated, challenging