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Questions & Answers about Річ важлива.
What is the grammatical gender of річ and how does it affect the form of the adjective важлива?
The noun річ is feminine. In Ukrainian, adjectives must agree with the noun they modify in gender, number, and case. That’s why важлива appears in the feminine singular nominative form to match річ.
Why is there no verb equivalent to is in the sentence Річ важлива?
In Ukrainian, the present tense copula (the equivalent of to be) is usually omitted. The meaning of is is understood from the structure, so Річ важлива directly expresses "The thing is important" without needing an explicit verb.
Can the adjective важлива be placed before the noun, and does this change the meaning or emphasis?
Yes, you could say важлива річ. However, placing the adjective before the noun can slightly shift the emphasis, often giving the description a more subjective or stylistic nuance. The standard predicate order in Ukrainian is to have the noun first and the adjective following it, as in Річ важлива, which plainly states the characteristic.
What are some nuances in the meaning of річ that a learner should be aware of?
Річ typically translates as "thing" or "matter." It can refer to a concrete object or an abstract concept depending on context. Understanding the context in which річ is used will help you discern whether it’s emphasizing a physical object or an idea, issue, or event.
How should Річ важлива be pronounced?
A rough pronunciation guide is “Reech vahz-HLEE-vah.” Keep in mind that the р is slightly rolled, ч sounds like the ch in “church,” and the stress in важлива generally falls on the last syllable.