How to Say "I don't understand" in Russian
The most natural way to say "I don't understand" in Russian is Я не понимаю. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
Use this phrase when you genuinely do not understand something someone has said. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. It's a polite way to express confusion or a lack of comprehension.
Say it out loud, get corrected
Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "I don't understand" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.
Examples in Russian
| Russian | English |
|---|---|
| Я не понимаю, что ты имеешь в виду. | I don't understand what you mean. |
| Извини, я не понимаю этот вопрос. | Sorry, I don't understand this question. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear Я не понимаю, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Russian with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
How can I ask someone to explain something again?
You can say 'Можешь объяснить ещё раз?' which means 'Can you explain it again?'
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