Signification
Complimenting someone's character.
Contexte culturel
In Ukraine, being called 'добрий' is one of the highest compliments. It implies a person is 'щирий' (sincere) and 'відкритий' (open-hearted). Hospitality often involves offering food and help even to strangers. Ukrainians are quite strict about using 'Ви' with anyone older or in a higher position. Switching to 'Ти' too early can be seen as disrespectful. 'Ви дуже добрі' helps maintain this respectful distance while being warm. There is a shift from the more rigid, cold Soviet-style public interaction to a warmer, more European style of service and social interaction in modern Ukraine. This phrase is part of that warmer, more personal linguistic landscape. Since 2022, the phrase has gained a deeper meaning. It is used constantly to thank volunteers, soldiers, and neighbors. It has become a verbal glue that reinforces national unity and mutual aid.
The Smile Factor
This phrase is 50% words and 50% facial expression. A warm smile makes it sound 100% more native.
Avoid Sarcasm
Be careful not to use this phrase if you are actually annoyed, as it can sound biting and sarcastic in Ukrainian.
Signification
Complimenting someone's character.
The Smile Factor
This phrase is 50% words and 50% facial expression. A warm smile makes it sound 100% more native.
Avoid Sarcasm
Be careful not to use this phrase if you are actually annoyed, as it can sound biting and sarcastic in Ukrainian.
Add a Name
Adding a name or title (e.g., 'Ви дуже добрі, пані Олено') makes the compliment significantly more powerful.
Response to 'No'
If someone can't help you but was polite about it, you can still say 'Ви дуже добрі, дякую і на тому' (You are very kind, thanks anyway).
Teste-toi
Complete the formal compliment.
Ви дуже ______.
With the formal 'Ви', the adjective must be in the plural form 'добрі'.
Which sentence is the most polite way to thank a stranger?
A stranger helped you find your way. What do you say?
'Ви дуже добрі' is the standard formal and polite way to address a stranger.
Match the Ukrainian phrase with its English equivalent.
Match the pairs:
Each phrase has a specific level of formality and nuance.
Fill in the missing line in the dialogue.
Олександр: 'Дозвольте мені допомогти вам з цими дверима.' Ви: '_________________'
Since Олександр is using the formal 'Дозвольте', you should respond with the formal 'Ви дуже добрі'.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Formal vs Informal Kindness
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesВи дуже ______.
With the formal 'Ви', the adjective must be in the plural form 'добрі'.
A stranger helped you find your way. What do you say?
'Ви дуже добрі' is the standard formal and polite way to address a stranger.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
Each phrase has a specific level of formality and nuance.
Олександр: 'Дозвольте мені допомогти вам з цими дверима.' Ви: '_________________'
Since Олександр is using the formal 'Дозвольте', you should respond with the formal 'Ви дуже добрі'.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsIt's better to use 'Ти дуже добрий' (boy) or 'Ти дуже добра' (girl). 'Ви' is too formal for a child.
It is 'добрі' (with an 'i'). The 'i' makes it plural and polite.
Yes, it is very appropriate for a boss if they have done you a favor or been understanding.
'Добрий' means kind/good-hearted, while 'ввічливий' means polite/well-mannered.
You can say 'Дякую, мені приємно' (Thank you, I'm pleased) or 'Та нема за що' (It's nothing).
No, you can say 'Ви добрі', but 'дуже' adds a necessary level of warmth and emphasis.
Absolutely. It's a great way to close an email after someone has helped you.
Not at all. It is a living, modern phrase used daily in Ukraine.
The phrase remains exactly the same: 'Ви дуже добрі'.
Not really, but 'Ви дуже люб'язні' is a similar-length alternative.
No, you would use 'добрий пес' (kind dog). 'Ви' is only for people.
Yes, it is common throughout all of Ukraine.
Expressions liées
Ви дуже люб'язні
synonymYou are very obliging/kind.
Дякую за доброту
similarThank you for the kindness.
Ви золота людина
builds onYou are a golden person.
Не будьте такими добрими
contrastDon't be so kind.
