I'm learning
русский
край — meaning in English: edge
kray · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
edge
мясо
myaso
схема
skhema
беспокойство
bespokoystvo
коттедж
kottedzh
край
kray
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Russian for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use 'край' in various contexts, such as describing the edge of a physical object, like a table or a cliff, or discussing geographical borders, such as the edge of a country. It can also appear in everyday conversations to express the limit of something, like the edge of one's patience or tolerance.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'берег' (bereg), which specifically means 'bank' or 'shore' and is often used in relation to water bodies. You'd choose 'край' when discussing edges more broadly or in non-water contexts, such as the edge of a road or a situation.
Culture
'Край' has interesting roots; it comes from the Old Slavic word meaning 'border' or 'limit'. This reflects the Russian cultural focus on nature and geography, as many rural communities often refer to their land's edges as significant landmarks in their lives. The word also finds a place in common expressions, often symbolizing boundaries in personal or emotional contexts.
FAQ
