как раз
kak raz — exactly / just right / precisely / right on time
Register: neutral / colloquial
What it really means
"Как раз" means something fits perfectly, arrives at exactly the right moment, or is precisely what was needed. It conveys satisfaction — a "just right" feeling. It can describe timing, size, or coincidence.
It also appears as "as a matter of fact" or "actually" when adding a relevant detail: "Я как раз собирался тебе звонить" = "I was just about to call you, actually." The phrase is always positive in tone — there is a rightness or exactness to the situation.
Examples in natural speech
Ты как раз вовремя!
You're right on time!
Эти туфли мне как раз по размеру.
These shoes fit me perfectly.
Как раз об этом я и хотел поговорить.
That's exactly what I wanted to talk about.
Я как раз собирался тебе звонить.
I was just about to call you, actually.
Как раз столько денег, сколько нужно.
Exactly as much money as needed.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse "как раз" with "как-то раз" (once / one time). "Как-то раз" is used for stories: "Как-то раз я встретил его..." = "One time I ran into him..." "Как раз" is about exact fit or timing, not narrative past.
Memory tip
"Как раз" = "just right" — like Goldilocks. The timing, size, or circumstance fits perfectly.
Frequently asked questions
What does как раз mean in Russian?
"Как раз" means "exactly," "just right," or "right on time." It expresses a perfect fit — of timing, size, or circumstance. "Ты как раз вовремя!" = "You're right on time!"
How do you use как раз in a sentence?
Place "как раз" before the thing that fits perfectly: "Как раз то, что мне нужно" = "Exactly what I need." Or before a verb: "Я как раз думал о тебе" = "I was just thinking about you."
What is the difference between как раз and именно?
Both mean "exactly/precisely," but "именно" is more emphatic and formal. "Как раз" has a warmer, more conversational tone and often implies lucky timing or fit.
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