How to say "Do you speak English?" in Russian
Ты говоришь по-английски?
Ty go-vo-RISH po-an-GLIY-ski?
What does it mean?
A crucial phrase for beginners asking if their peer speaks English.
When to use
Use this when you are struggling with Russian and need to switch to English with someone your age.
When NOT to use
If approaching a stranger on the street or a shop assistant, use the formal "Вы говорите по-английски?".
Example dialogue
— Извини, ты говоришь по-английски?
— Sorry, do you speak English?
— Да, немного.
— Yes, a little bit.
Cultural note
Many young people in major Russian cities speak good English, but older generations typically only speak Russian.
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