Prepositions in Russian can change meaning depending on the case they are used with. This is especially true for the words "за" (which means "for" or "behind") and "перед" (which means "in front of" or "before").

Understanding how these prepositions work with different cases is important. It helps you notice the small changes in meaning.

Preposition "за"

1. Accusative Case:

   • When "за" is used with the accusative case, it usually shows a purpose or goal.
   • Example: Я пошёл за хлебом. (I went for bread.)

2. Instrumental Case:

   • When used with the instrumental case, "за" means being behind something or someone. It often shows support or connection.
   • Example: Я стою за другом. (I stand behind my friend.)

Preposition "перед"

1. Nominative Case:

   • When combined with the nominative case, "перед" describes a position or location.
   • Example: Он стоит перед домом. (He is standing in front of the house.)

2. Instrumental Case:

   • In the instrumental case, "перед" means that an action happens right before something else.
   • Example: Я успел перед началом фильма. (I made it before the start of the movie.)

Summary of Cases

| Preposition | Case | Meaning | Example | |-------------|-------------|----------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | за | Accusative | Purpose | Я пошёл за хлебом. | | за | Instrumental| Behind, support | Я стою за другом. | | перед | Nominative | Position | Он стоит перед домом. | | перед | Instrumental| Action happening before something| Я успел перед началом фильма. |

By learning how to use "за" and "перед" with their cases, you can better understand where things are and what people mean in Russian. This will help you communicate more clearly.

Practice using these prepositions to become more fluent and natural in your Russian!