In Eastern European countries, Russian-speaking tourists encounter a strange word that is misleading.
On the way from the airport by bus or taxi, travelers notice the sign POZOR.
Tourists see it in Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia more than once. Inexperienced Russian-speaking travelers translate this word as "shame". Many do not understand who the locals are trying to shame.
In fact, the purpose of the signs with the inscription POZOR is different, reports the portal Sport24 . In the languages of these countries, this word is not associated with shame, disgrace or dishonor. These signs warn travelers that they need to be careful and cautious.
Initially, the word "pozor" was associated with other concepts in Russian. This word comes from the verb "zrit'", that is, to look. Therefore, the word "pozor" in Church Slavonic is a spectacle, something that is put on display. Spectators, for example, were called "pozorniki".
The meaning of the word changed after the appearance of pillory in Europe and Rus'. It was believed that such a measure would help maintain discipline in society and show its "heroes" to the public. That is, the essence of pillory was to shame those who had done wrong.
Thus, over time, the word “shame” in Russian acquired its modern meaning, separating from “pozor” in Czech, Polish and other Slavic languages.
