Elon.io is an online learning platform
We have an entire course teaching Russian grammar and vocabulary.
Questions & Answers about Он врач?
Where are the words for 'is' and 'a' in this sentence?
In Russian, you skip the present tense of the verb 'to be' (is, am, are). Russian also doesn't have articles like 'a' or 'the'. So, 'Is he a doctor?' is simply Он врач? (He doctor?).
How do I know this is a question if the word order is exactly the same as a normal sentence?
In writing, the only difference is the question mark! Russian doesn't rearrange words to form yes/no questions like English does. When speaking, you make it a question entirely with your voice by raising your pitch sharply on the most important word you are asking about—in this case, врач.
How would I answer 'yes' or 'no' to this?
To answer yes, say Да, он врач. To answer no, use нет (no) and place the negative word не (not) right before the word it negates: Нет, он не врач (No, he is not a doctor).
How do I pronounce the вр at the start of врач?
Blend the 'v' and 'r' sounds together quickly, similar to the 'fr' in 'friend' but with a 'v' sound. Be careful not to add an extra vowel sound between them—it is one syllable, so avoid saying 'vuh-rach'.