i) Orthoepy is the branch of Russian phonetics that studies the norms and standards of correct literary pronunciation. The term originates from the Greek words *orthos* (correct) and *epos* (speech). Its primary purpose is to ensure uniformity in spoken language and to preserve the accepted pronunciation used in education, broadcasting, literature, and formal communication. Orthoepy establishes rules for the pronunciation of vowels and consonants, stress placement, assimilation of sounds, reduction of unstressed vowels, and the articulation of borrowed words. Since Russian spelling and pronunciation do not always correspond exactly, orthoepy plays a crucial role in helping speakers pronounce words according to literary norms rather than strictly following their written form. Russian orthoepy is