The instrumental case in Russian is important because it helps us understand how actions happen, especially with some key verbs.

Key Verbs That Use the Instrumental Case:

• Работать с (to work with)
• Заниматься (to engage in)
• Гордиться (to be proud of)

Examples:

• Я работаю с компьютером.
  (I work with a computer.)

• Он занимается спортом.
  (He engages in sports.)

• Она гордится своим успехом.
  (She is proud of her success.)

Understanding Different Actions:

• Use imperfective verbs for actions that are still happening:
  • Я занимаюсь.
    (I am engaging in something.)
• Use perfective verbs for actions that are finished:
  • Я занялся.
    (I completed an activity.)

Extra Tips:

• Pay attention to participles and gerunds:
  • Занимаясь спортом, ты становишься сильнее.
    (By engaging in sports, you become stronger.)

By learning these patterns, you will be better at talking about actions in Russian!