A great advantage of Russian language is that it is kind of 'phonetic', so each sound in Russian is generally written by using a single letter. As a result Russian is much easier and straightforward than English, and you will be able to read Russian words correctly even when if you see them for the first time. However, there are some difficulties in reading and pronouncing Russian words caused by the difference in pronunciation between stressed and unstressed vowels.

Along with learning how to read Russian alphabet in printed version, we would recommend you to learn how to write in Russian. Russian handwritten letters are bit different. Although learning handwritten letter might seem as a little extra work at the beginning, you will find it extremely useful once you start writing Russian words in order to memorize them.

The Russian Alphabet

The Russian or Cyrillic alphabet was developed in the 9th century and is based on the Greek alphabet. A few Russian letters look and sound the same as in English whereas others look the same as English letters but pronounced differently or look unfamiliar, but indeed represent the same sounds which are used in English. It is not difficult so learn Russian alphabet right now!

Listen to the Russian Alphabet

Listen to the Russian Alphabet with examples of Russian words

Use the table below to help you while you're listening.

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