Common Ukrainian Language Mistakes: A Guide to Proper Usage

Language Corner: Your Weekly Guide to Ukrainian

According to Главком: In the 'Language Corner' column on the 'Glavcom' website, philologist Olha Vasylieva addresses current issues in the Ukrainian language. This weekly feature presents ten reader-submitted questions, showcasing common errors and their corrections. Readers can send their own language queries to [email protected] with the subject line 'Language Corner'.

Navigating Grammatical Nuances

A key topic covered is the correct use of the locative plural case with the preposition 'po'. The normative forms use the endings -akh/-yakh, as in these examples:

• po mistakh (in cities)
• po lisakh (in forests)
• po zubakh (on teeth)
• po rodychakh (among relatives)
• po subotakh (on Saturdays)
• po kysheniakh (in pockets)
• po polychkakh (on shelves)
• po shvakh (on seams)

Conversely, it is incorrect to use 'po' in constructions like 'nadislaty po mistsiu prozhyvannia' (to send to a place of residence). The proper formulations are 'nadislaty za mistsem prozhyvannia', 'prodavaty za sobiartistiu' (to sell at cost), and 'pratsiuvaty za fakhom' (to work in one's profession).

The article also clarifies the use of the adverb 'nadovori' (outside), which is standard Ukrainian. Regarding musical instruments, the correct terms are 'harmon' or the colloquial 'harmonka'. This instrument, the accordion, was created by Czech engineer František Kirschnik in Russia at the end of the 18th century. The usage of the word 'chutno' (audible) is analyzed, noting its use by classic Ukrainian writers like Panas Myrnyi, Mykhailo Kotsiubynskyi, and Lesia Ukrainka.

Reader questions highlighted specific error examples, including:

• 'Vazhlyvi zminy po tarifam SMS informuvannia' - a message from Raiffeisen Bank (incorrect)
• 'Vorozhi rakety striilaiut po ukrainskym mistam' - an example of an error (incorrect)

Other questions addressed whether to use 'Na vulytsi chy nadovori?' (In the street or outside?) and 'Harmoshka i matrioshka' (Accordion and matryoshka doll). Correct usage examples were provided, such as 'Chutno spiv solovia' (The nightingale's song is audible) and an advertisement for shampoo: 'Siailyve volossia' (Shining hair).

Each question and its analysis in the 'Language Corner' helps improve linguistic literacy and awareness among Ukrainians regarding the proper use of their native language. This column is a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their command of Ukrainian, spotlighting frequent mistakes to aid everyday communication. Such initiatives foster a more conscious and correct application of the language, contributing to its preservation and popularization.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of the complexities of the Ukrainian language, our language column addresses intricate grammar issues and provides clear answers to challenging questions from readers. This resource complements the insights shared in our latest article, helping you avoid common pitfalls in language usage.