Red Kalinka Forum

I was recently baptized Russian Orthodox and have been wanting to get a tattoo to incorporate this faith. I also recently went through a serious medical condition and I'd love for my tattoo to say "appreciate life" as a reminder to not take life for granted. Then I'm also going to tattoo am image of my Orthodox cross. What is the best way to say "appreciate life" please? I greatly appreciate your input and help!

Alexandra

Hi Alexandra,
I think the most appropriate translation of the phrase 'Appreciate life' into Russian is 'Цени жизнь'. This translation is literal, meaningful, and short.

I wish the coming year of 2016 would be great for you!

Thank you, Taras! I really appreciate your help! I found this online "ценить жизнь", but it looks like it's slightly different than yours. Is there a difference? Which is better? Thanks again, this tattoo is very meaningful for me and I want to get it right!

Yes, the phrase 'Цени́ть жизнь' is different to 'Цени́ жизнь'.

'Ценить' is an infinitive while 'цени' is an imperative. That is why if we translate 'Ценить жизнь' into English, we get 'To appreciate life', which is not what you want your tatoo to mean. If you want the tatoo to remind you to be grateful for your life, the right choice is 'Цени жизнь'.

Thank you, again, Taras, I greatly appreciate it!

[i][i]Alexandra,

my congratulations upon being baptised Russian Orthodox!!! God bless you, sister!!![/i][/i]

Thank you! And the same to you!