How to say "Where are you from?" in Russian
Откуда ты?
Ot-KU-da ty?
What does it mean?
Literally "From where are you?". A direct and common way to ask about someone's origin, country, or city.
When to use
Use this in casual settings with people of your age or younger, or when you have already established a first-name basis.
When NOT to use
Do not use this with older people, authorities, or in strict business meetings. Use the formal "Откуда вы?" instead.
Example dialogue
— Откуда ты?
— Where are you from?
— Я из Испании. А ты?
— I am from Spain. And you?
Cultural note
If you ask this inside Russia, locals will typically answer with their home city. If asked abroad, they will say "I am from Russia".
Related phrases
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