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Девушка — meaning in English: Girl

Devushka · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for girl
вообще
voobshche
телевидение
televideniye
Девушка
Devushka
демократ
demokrat
последовательность
posledovatel'nost'
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informal very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'девушка' in casual conversations when referring to young women or girls. You might hear it in social settings, such as when friends discuss someone they know or when introducing a female friend at a gathering. It's also commonly used in dating contexts, where a young woman might be affectionately referred to as 'девушка.'
Synonyms & nuances
'Девушка' is often compared to 'женщина,' which means 'woman.' While 'женщина' refers to adult females and carries a more mature connotation, 'девушка' typically refers to younger females, usually in their teens or twenties. Use 'девушка' when you want to emphasize youthfulness or affection.
Culture
'Девушка' has its roots in the Old Slavic word 'девъ,' meaning 'maiden' or 'virgin.' In Russian culture, the term carries a sense of respect and endearment, often used to denote youth and femininity. Interestingly, the word can also imply a level of innocence or purity, making it a popular choice in both everyday conversation and romantic contexts.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of девушка?
The plural form of 'девушка' is 'девушки.' This form is used when referring to multiple girls or young women.
Q.Can I use девушка to refer to an adult woman?
'Девушка' is generally used for younger women or girls. While it's not incorrect to refer to an adult woman as 'девушка,' it may be seen as slightly informal or even patronizing, depending on the context.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using the word девушка?
One common mistake is using 'девушка' to refer to females in their thirties or older. It's best reserved for younger women, while 'женщина' should be used for adults.
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