Some functional words in Russian, despite their brevity, have a very long history. That is why they are not always perceived correctly by contemporaries. The colorful “one” is a frequent guest in religious texts, as well as in old official documents. It is rarely used even today. But what meaning does the speaker put in a capacious designation? For what situations is it suitable and when should it be avoided?
Unusual Origins
This is a standard demonstrative pronoun. It goes back not to complex terms, but to the Proto-Slavic “it”, which was used instead of a proper name. And until now, if you need to name an object, they say “this”. This is very convenient when you need to avoid tautology or give a flair of sophistication, sophisticated antiquity.
Universal concept
But when should you use it? Depends on the context and the author's message. You can decorate a work of art with a colorful insert so that the reader can better feel the atmosphere of a bygone era with the help of a marker. Most often, the meaning of “one” acquires in an elevated style, appears on the rights of clericalism. Stands for:
- the same one;
- above.
This is appropriate if both interlocutors understand what specific subject, event or time is being discussed. And also in the case when a clear indication was given above in the text and now strive to avoid repetition. The definition is outdated, making it difficult for the younger generation to meet it.
From time immemorial
Some of the interpretations are old. It turns out in them that the allegorically afterlife is one. It is quite possible to approach the “other”. There are three exotic meanings:
- Opposite.
- Otherworldly.
- Unmemorable.
The first two can be read literally and figuratively:
- call from this shore to O.;
- call from this world to O. light.
When talking about time, it takes on a playful, ironic form. The expression implies “at the time it is”, fixes some abstract chronological position so long ago that it is impossible to remember. Partial synonym for "long".
Daily communication
How appropriate in the 21st century? The problem is in a rather exotic, artsy form. When discussing purchases, “one” is an obvious excess, and in colloquial speech it looks like a black sheep. It is also not suitable for business correspondence, being replaced by specifics, the full name of the object of discussion. Young people prefer "that". By memorizing the pronoun, you will be able to demonstrate erudition in the future and easily read old documents, butpractical use at the household level is minimal.
