The instrumental meaning network
Instrumental construes an entity as a means, companion, role, state, spatial reference point, or other accompanying circumstance.
- One case, related construals: Do not reduce instrumental to English 'with'. Some uses have no preposition, and с + instrumental specifically marks accompaniment.
| Relation | Example | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| tool / means | писа́ть ру́чкой | write with a pen |
| accompaniment | с дру́гом | with a friend |
| role / predicate | стать врачо́м | become a doctor |
| static spatial relation | под столо́м | under the table |
| manner / route | е́хать по́ездом | travel by train |
| agent in passive | напи́сано студе́нтом | written by a student |
Mini-check
1. Identify the instrumental role: Она́ пи́шет ру́чкой. 2. Name two instrumental uses without с.
Apply this next
- Retrieve the rule without looking, then continue to the next lesson.