Summer is here, the windows are wide open, and a refreshing breeze is flowing through the house. Sounds wonderful, right? In Russia, someone will probably say: “Закрой окно, сквозняк!” Close the window, there’s a draft!

Сквозняк means a draft, a current of air moving through a room when windows or doors are open. While many people enjoy fresh air and natural ventilation, Russians often associate a сквозняк with catching a cold, getting a sore throat, or waking up with a stiff neck.
Examples:
✅️ Закрой окно, здесь сквозняк.
Close the window, there’s a draft here.
✅️ Не сиди на сквозняке!
Don’t sit in a draft!
✅️ Из-за сквозняка дверь постоянно хлопает.
The door keeps slamming because of the draft.
This little word is a great example of how language reflects culture. Understanding words like сквозняк helps you sound more confident, expand your Russian vocabulary, and better understand everyday conversations in Russian-speaking families.
Russian Word of the Day
Сквозняк — draft, draught, airflow through an open space.
Perfect for anyone interested in:
- Russian language and culture
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