Understanding the Preposition "для" in Russian

In Russian, we often use the word "для," which means "for." It’s important to use "для" along with another form called the genitive case. Knowing how to use "для" will help you understand better and improve your speaking and writing skills.

How to Use "для"

The word "для" can show different ideas:

1. Purpose:

   • "для" tells us why something is important or why we do something.
   • Example: "Это подарок для мамы."
     (This is a gift for mom.)

2. Benefit:

   • It shows who will benefit from something.
   • Example: "У нас много планов для детей."
     (We have many plans for the children.)

3. Intended Recipient:

   • "для" tells us who is meant to get something.
   • Example: "Я купила цветы для учителя."
     (I bought flowers for the teacher.)

Changing to the Genitive Case

When using "для," the noun that comes after it must change into the genitive case. Here’s how to change nouns based on gender:

• Masculine: Simply drop the ending.

  • Example: "студент" becomes "студента" (student).

• Feminine: Take away the 'а' or 'я.'

  • Example: "девушка" changes to "девушки" (girl).

• Neuter and Plural: Follow similar changes.

  • Example: "озеро" (lake) changes to "озера," and "книги" (books) stays the same.

Examples to Practice

1. У нас нет времени для отдыха.
   (We have no time for rest.)

2. Это важно для успеха.
   (This is important for success.)

3. Письмо предназначено для друга.
   (The letter is for a friend.)

Using "для" with the genitive case will help you understand how actions connect to people or things in Russian. This will make you better at speaking and writing in the language!