Russian lesson of the day
Russian Lesson of the Day allows you to practice the vocabulary you learn with us using the method of spaced repetitions.
Russian Lesson of the Day allows you to practice the vocabulary you learn with us using the method of spaced repetitions.
Anita says:
Hello, could you explain the construction of the second example? Why is infinitive пойти́ used here? And why the dative нам? Thanks.
Learn Russian Words says:
Hi Anita,
This is a sort of imperative or suggestion. The Dative case is used because it is a suggestion TO someone. The infinitive is used because the action is not performed by anybody yet. Negation НЕ adds an intonation to the whole phrase.
It is a common conversational way to suggest an action:
– А не заказать ли нам пиццу?
How about we order a pizza? (Why don’t we order a pizza?)
– А не пойти ли тебе в баню?
This one is a bit rude. Literally it can be translated as: How about you go to a bath house?
Meaning: Why don’t you mind your own business?
If you wonder about the connection to a bath house, here is a podcast that explains it. 🙂
Isa says:
Very helpful, thanks!
Learn Russian Words says:
Hello Isa,
Thanks for the feedback, appreciated 🙂