Correct Ukrainian Terminology for Fasteners: Debunking Myths About the Word ‘пуговица’
In recent years, the movement to promote the use of pure Ukrainian language, free from surzhyk, Russisms, and calques, has gained significant momentum.
One of the key issues in this process is the correct terminology for clothing fasteners, especially buttons.
Many Ukrainians colloquially use the word ‘пуговиця,’ a calque from the Russian ‘пуговица,’ but linguistically correct Ukrainian terminology recommends using the word ‘ґудзик.’ This term refers to the round fastening device used in clothing to secure fabric or serve as decoration.
According to authoritative sources like the Mikhail Kotsiubinsky Dictionary of Ukrainian Language, ‘ґудзик’ is the proper Ukrainian word.
Understanding and applying the correct terminology is essential for preserving linguistic integrity and enriching language culture.
Using Russian-derived words or surzhyk negatively impacts the richness and authenticity of Ukrainian speech.
Furthermore, regional dialect words, such as ‘кацараба,’ ‘пструг,’ or ‘смок,’ which are common in places like Lviv, contribute to regional linguistic diversity.
Knowledge of both standard and dialect forms helps maintain Ukraine’s linguistic richness and supports the development of its language.
To improve linguistic proficiency, it is advisable to engage more actively with Ukrainian literature, expand vocabulary consciously, and avoid the use of surzhyk and Russisms in everyday conversation.