Russian Dating Communication Challenge

by Steve Galvin
(Brisbane, Australia)

One of the most challenging aspects of Russian dating is the language barrier. No matter how well you speak Russian, or how well your partner speaks English (or whatever your native language is), you will still experience many challenges when it comes to communication.

Dating someone from your own country is usually very easy in terms of communication. Chances are that you both speak the same language, and you'll also share an understanding of local slang (terminology unique to your region) as well as sense of humor.

You can't underestimate just how much of a difference this common language, and shared sense of humor, makes to a relationship. Russian dating is challenging in this respect, especially in the early stages of your relationship. This is the time when you are both learning more about each other and trying to work out if this is the right person for you. How can you know for sure, if you can't talk freely to each other?!

Of course, there are some things you can understand, without the need for words. Physical attraction, manners, and the way you behave say a lot about you. But communication is critical for having a successful relationship that lasts more than just a few meetings.

I'll never forget one of the funnier things I said by mistake in Russian to a girl I was getting to know. While talking on the telephone, I tried to say "Can you hear me?", but in Russian it came out as "Are you listening to me?" Needless to say, she wasn't very happy when I said it. Likewise, I couldn't understand her reaction to my "thoughtful" comment! It's not the only time you'll get 2 words in Russian like "to hear" (sliyshat') and "to listen" (slooshat') that sound almost identical.

The good news is that there are many resources to help you. It's the main reason for our site. By choosing to learn Russian (and continuing to learn it as your relationship grows) you will be amazed at how well your relationship improves. The ability to relate to your partner in his/her local language is absolutely invaluable.