Without Surzhyk: How to Speak Correct Ukrainian and Avoid Common Mistakes in Everyday Speech
Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, many Ukrainian citizens have made a conscious choice to switch to using Ukrainian in everyday communication, aiming to strengthen national identity and preserve cultural heritage.
However, many Ukrainians still make language errors, which is understandable and natural for those just beginning to actively learn and apply Ukrainian in their daily lives.
One common issue is the use of the word «обувь» — a calque from Russian, which today can often be heard in colloquial Ukrainian speech, but the correct term is «взуття».
This word refers to footwear made from leather, rubber, sailcloth, or other materials, worn on the feet.
In Ukrainian, its proper equivalent is «взуття».
According to the Academic Explanatory Dictionary of the Ukrainian Language, «взуття» is a product for foot wear, manufactured from various materials with a solid sole.
At the same time, awareness is growing about the importance of rejecting surrogate Russian words and Русизми to speak Ukrainian more accurately and clearly.
Sociological studies show that many Ukrainians have consciously begun to speak Ukrainian even under the complicated circumstances of Russian aggression, changing their language habits.
For insights into how Ukrainians are tackling the language issue and transitioning to pure Ukrainian, read the article by Kherson-based journalist and polygraphy freelancer Volodymyr Shishkov — «Language’s Transition Age», published on ZN.UA.