How to say "How old are you?" in Russian
Сколько тебе лет?
SKOL-ko te-BE let?
What does it mean?
Literally "How many years to you?". Used to ask a person's age.
When to use
Use with younger people, peers, or in very informal, friendly conversations where asking age is appropriate.
When NOT to use
Never ask this question to older people or women in formal/polite contexts, as it is often considered impolite in Russian culture.
Example dialogue
— Сколько тебе лет?
— How old are you?
— Мне двадцать пять.
— I am twenty-five.
Cultural note
Unlike in some Western cultures, asking a peer's age is relatively common among Russian youth, but it remains a taboo for older generations.
Want to know how to decline words like this?
Get our free Russian Cases cheat sheet — all six cases, their endings, and the transformation algorithm in one clean PDF.
Check your inbox! 📬
The PDF is on its way. If you don't see it, check spam.
Putnik School
This is one word out of thousands.
Every word in our vocabulary hub comes with full declensions, real examples and flashcards. Free to start — no card needed.