Thread: Quick question

Considering starting russian next semester as i finish my fourth semester of french. (its ok but i was lazy one semester so that leaves me at a disadvantage and it doesnt interest me enough to make an effort to get caught up). I just have one question. In russian are there any words that require you to roll your r's like in spanish? I can't no matter how many times i have tried. It is just not physically possible for me. Thanks.

Yes, every Russian word that has the letter "P" in it

Originally Posted by meursault

In russian are there any words that require you to roll your r's like in spanish?

Russian "r" is like in Spanish. Always, not just in some words.

Let Uncle Davey teach you. Having studied Spanish in college, I don't think the "roll" of the Russian R is as pronounced as that of Spanish R. You can do it.

Originally Posted by noheat

I don't think the "roll" of the Russian R is as pronounced as that of Spanish R.

They are almost the same. The Spanish and Italian "r" are a bit softer. Roughly, they are pronounced equal.

Damn, in your guys' opinions is it something that can be learned given enough practice or is it sometimes you just can or can't?

Originally Posted by meursault

Damn, in your guys' opinions is it something that can be learned given enough practice or is it sometimes you just can or can't?

Not every Russian native speaker is able to to pronounce r’s properly. Practice makes perfect...

Originally Posted by meursault

Damn, in your guys' opinions is it something that can be learned given enough practice or is it sometimes you just can or can't?

Sure one can learn it but sometimes it is difficult. Many little children have problems with this sound when learning speech. Even a number of adult Russian native speakers are unable to pronounce it correctly.