Learn Hardcore Ukrainian: Петро їде на велосипеді, навіть якщо йде дощ.

The verb їде means “is riding” or “goes” (by vehicle) and is a conjugated form of the verb that indicates movement using a mode of transportation. In this context, it tells us that Petro is riding his bicycle.

Why is the phrase на велосипеді used instead of simply saying велосипед?

In Ukrainian, when talking about traveling by a means of transport, the preposition на is used with a specific case—in this case, the locative form of велосипед becomes велосипеді. This construction specifically tells us that Petro is riding on or by means of a bicycle.

What does the phrase навіть якщо translate to in English?

The phrase навіть якщо translates directly to “even if” in English. It introduces a conditional clause that shows Petro’s action continues regardless of adverse conditions, such as rain.

Why is the verb йде used to describe the weather instead of a verb that directly translates as “rains”?

In Ukrainian, weather conditions are commonly described using the verb йде. Although it literally means “goes,” in phrases like йде дощ it idiomatically expresses “it is raining.” This is just a standard way of talking about weather in Ukrainian.

What is the role of the comma in the sentence?

The comma separates the main clause (Петро їде на велосипеді) from the subordinate or conditional clause (навіть якщо йде дощ). This punctuation helps clarify that the conditional statement about the rain is additional information that does not change the main action of Petro riding his bicycle.

How does the structure of this sentence compare to a similar English sentence?

Much like English, where you might say “Petro rides his bicycle, even if it rains,” Ukrainian uses a similar clause structure. Both languages employ a comma to set off the conditional part of the sentence. However, Ukrainian requires specific grammatical forms (such as the locative велосипеді) that may look different from English but perform a similar function in conveying the meaning.