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Russian frequency list

No. 403 in Russian

тем

The word "тем" in Russian is the instrumental singular form of "тот" (that) and can mean "by that," "with that," or "the [comparative]... the [comparative]" in certain constructions.

In a sentence

  • Она занимается тем, что исследует космос.

    She is engaged in exploring space.

    In this sentence, 'тем' is used as a demonstrative pronoun in the instrumental case, referring to 'that (thing)' or 'what' that she is engaged in.

  • Чем больше мы учимся, тем больше мы знаем.

    The more we study, the more we know.

    Here, 'тем' is part of a comparative construction 'чем... тем...', indicating a relationship between increased learning and knowledge.

  • Успех в учебе связан с тем, как вы организуете свое время.

    Success in studies is related to how you organize your time.

    In this example, 'тем' is used to introduce a subordinate clause, functioning as a reference to the explanation or condition provided in the clause.

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