Russia
Any mention of atrocities committed in Chechnya or Georgia.
Defense of American actions in Serbia, which Russians consider evidence of a double standard when accused of human rights violations.
The implication that Russia is not as advanced as other Western countries, politically or otherwise.
Putin is sometimes criticized, but anything breezily dismissive can easily draw defensive protests.
General liberal pronouncements against sexism or racism risk arousing the accusation of political correctness.
Diversionary Topics - Russia's entrepreneurial streak; its centrality in the world; and its cultural treasures (literature, music, and art).
At a meeting You’d be hard-pressed to get hems higher or necklines lower than those of Muscovite businesswomen. While Americans shouldn’t try to keep up, they’re expected to spend time on their hair and makeup. Men accessorize mullets (a trend!) with double-breasted suits, preferably pin-striped.
On the street Scanty outfits require tights and fur coats during frigid Russian winters; men flash as much Dolce, Versace, and Armani as possible, along with acid-washed Italian jeans. Sneakers draw incredulous stares.
At a party “The average Russian woman has higher cheekbones and longer legs,” says Peter Savodnik, a Russian-based journalist. You can catch up with stilettos (worn 24/7) and local fave Stella McCartney. Men have it much easier, Savodnik says: “Brush your teeth, use some product, tie your shoes, don’t make eye contact with cops, and everything will be fine.”
P.S. “Super Euro cologne—and especially anything Armani—is the height of hip; the more the better,” says Savodnik.
Hello
Zdrastvuytye (formal); zdrastvuy (informal); privyet (“hi”). The first is a tongue twister, so write it out, former expat and Russian-trained lawyer Christina Olsson recommends. Or go for the simpler dobroye utro (“good morning”), dobriy dyen (“good day”), or dobriy vyecher (“good evening”). If you’re a woman, she adds, “don’t expect to shake hands”; at least let the other person initiate.
Good-bye
Dosvidanya or vsyevo dobrovo (“be well”).
Thank You
Spasiba (bolshoye spasiba is, literally, “big thank you”).
Excuse Me
If you’ve just bumped someone or spilled something, say prashu proschenya (“forgive me”). To get someone’s attention, either if you need help or to make way, go with izvinitye.
Help Me
Pomogitye mnye pazhalusta (“help me please”); skazhitye pazhalusta (“tell me please”); nye mogli be vee mnye pomoch? (a more formal “would you be able to help me?”).
Please
Pazhalusta—use it often at the end of a request; also means “you’re welcome.”
