Ukrainian is a language rich in natural imagery, and if you’re planning a hike, a countryside trip, or just want to sound less like a clueless tourist, you’ll need more than just 'дерево' (tree). Here’s a no-nonsense guide to the words you’ll actually use.
Basic Nature Vocabulary
Ліс
[lʲis]“Forest”
A dense area of trees. If you’re in Ukraine, you’ll see plenty of these - especially in the Carpathians.
Гора
[ɦɔˈra]“Mountain”
Not just a hill. Ukraine’s Carpathians and Crimean ranges are full of them.
Річка
[ˈrʲit͡ʃkɐ]“River”
Flowing water. The Dnipro is the big one, but there are thousands more.
Озеро
[ˈɔzerɔ]“Lake”
A body of water surrounded by land. Synevyr in the Carpathians is particularly stunning.
Weather & Natural Phenomena
Дощ
[dɔʃt͡ʃ]“Rain”
Water falling from the sky. Common in spring and autumn - pack accordingly.
Сніг
[sʲnʲiɦ]“Snow”
Frozen precipitation. Winters in Ukraine can be harsh, especially in the mountains.
Вітер
[ˈʋʲiter]“Wind”
Moving air. Can be gentle or, in the steppes, strong enough to knock you sideways.
Plants & Wildlife
Квітка
[ˈkʋʲitkɐ]“Flower”
Pretty, colourful plant bits. Sunflowers are Ukraine’s national symbol.
Гриб
[ɦrɪb]“Mushroom”
Fungal growth. Ukrainians love foraging for these - just don’t eat the wrong ones.
Вовк
[wɔu̯k]“Wolf”
A wild canine. Rare, but present in some forested areas.
Useful Phrases for Outdoors
- Де тут найближчий ліс? (Where is the nearest forest?)
- Чи можна купатися в цьому озері? (Can I swim in this lake?)
- Як далеко до гори? (How far is the mountain?)
Pro tip: If you’re venturing into the wilderness, check out our guide on Essential Ukrainian Phrases for Hitchhiking - just in case you need to flag down a ride.
Final Thoughts
Ukrainian nature vocabulary isn’t just about memorising words - it’s about understanding the landscape. Whether you’re staring at the Carpathians or wandering through a sunflower field, these words will help you describe what you see. And if you’re still struggling, well, there’s always Ukrainian slang to fall back on.
