Table of contentsClick link to navigate to the desired location
This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
The Ukrainian language – is rich and logical, but sometimes we face the influence of other languages, which penetrates even the most everyday expressions. One such borrowing is the abbreviation used – «was used». At first glance, this seems like the right Ukrainian option, but in fact it is an adaptation of the Russian used (« used in usage»), which does not meet the norms of our language. So how to speak correctly?
Why "was used" – not the best option?
Abbreviation used in Russian, it means «used in usage», and in Ukrainian, its formal translation – appeared used, that is, «was used». However, this expression does not reflect the stylistics and logic of the Ukrainian language.
- The word "was" – is redundant. Used things – are those that have already been used, and this is already clear without specifying «was».
- Tracing paper from Russian. The translation of the used expression as «was used by» – is a direct copy of the Russian structure, which contradicts the Ukrainian speech standard.
It is more correct and appropriate to say in Ukrainian used things or used product. This not only corresponds to language norms, but also sounds more natural.Option "used goods" less desirable, since the word "used" is usually used to mean "acquired, accepted for use" (for example, "expression used in the language"). In this context, "used goods" can sound ambiguous and even wrong.
History of the concept of used things
The concept of secondhand things came long before current trends. In ancient times, the transmission of things between generations was a common practice. Clothes were re-sewn, furniture was restored, and household items served for decades.
In Soviet times, due to the shortage of goods, used things became a necessity. In the 90's, second-hand books emerged, thrift stores, flea markets and exchanges gained popularity. In those days, this process was perceived utilitarianly by – not as a choice, but as a forced step.
Today, buying used things – is not only an economic, but also an ecological choice. People deliberately prefer a product that has already been in use, reducing the consumption of resources.
What is the best way to speak?
To avoid language errors, choose the right options:
- Used things. This is a natural, literary counterpart that fully complies with Ukrainian standards.
- Used product. Suitable for marking a group of goods that have already been in use.
- Things that were in use. Descriptive version appropriate in formal texts.
Abbreviation used it is worth avoiding, since this is Russianism, which has no place in the modern Ukrainian language.
This post doesn't have any additions from the author yet.
