Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Abundance'

English Word: abundance

Key Russian Translations:

• изобилие [ˌizɐˈbilʲɪjə] - [Formal, Often used for material or natural wealth]
• обилие [ɐˈbilʲɪjə] - [Neutral, Common in written and spoken contexts]
• множество [ˈmnoʐɨstvə] - [Neutral, Used for a large number of items or abstract concepts]

Frequency: Medium (used regularly in formal and descriptive contexts)

Difficulty: B1-B2 (Intermediate - varies by translation; "множество" is easier, while "изобилие" may be more advanced due to formal usage)

Pronunciation (Russian):

изобилие: [ˌizɐˈbilʲɪjə]

Note on изобилие: Stress falls on the third syllable ("би"). The "и" sounds like the 'i' in "machine."

обилие: [ɐˈbilʲɪjə]

Note on обилие: Stress on the second syllable ("би"). Softer pronunciation of "о" as [ɐ] due to unstressed position.

множество: [ˈmnoʐɨstvə]

Note on множество: Stress on the first syllable ("мно"). The "ж" is a voiced retroflex fricative, similar to 's' in "measure."

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A large quantity of something (material or natural wealth)

Translation(s) & Context:

• изобилие - Often used for wealth, resources, or food in a formal or literary context.
• обилие - More neutral, can describe plenty of physical items or resources.

Usage Examples:

• На столе было изобилие еды и напитков.

  There was an abundance of food and drinks on the table.

• В этом регионе обилие природных ресурсов.

  There is an abundance of natural resources in this region.

• Мы наслаждались изобилием фруктов на рынке.

  We enjoyed the abundance of fruits at the market.

2. A large number or variety (abstract or countable items)

Translation(s) & Context:

• множество - Refers to a large number or multitude, often used for abstract concepts or countable items.
• обилие - Can also apply to variety or diversity in a neutral tone.

Usage Examples:

• У нас множество идей для проекта.

  We have an abundance of ideas for the project.

• В книге обилие примеров и иллюстраций.

  The book has an abundance of examples and illustrations.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

изобилие (neuter noun): Regular declension for neuter nouns in -ие. Does not have a plural form, as it denotes an abstract concept.

обилие (neuter noun): Follows the same pattern as "изобилие." No plural form.

множество (neuter noun): Regular declension, but can be used in plural ("множества") when referring to multiple sets or groups.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms:

• богатство (wealth, richness - more formal, often for material abundance)
• избыток (excess - implies surplus, sometimes negative)
• полнота (fullness - more abstract or figurative)

Antonyms:

• недостаток (shortage)
• дефицит (deficit)
• скудость (scarcity)

Related Phrases:

• изобилие возможностей - "abundance of opportunities" (used for potential or choices)
• обилие информации - "abundance of information" (common in academic or media contexts)
• множество вариантов - "abundance of options" (used for variety or alternatives)

Usage Notes:

• "изобилие" is more formal and often carries a positive connotation of richness or plenitude, suitable for literary or elevated speech.
• "обилие" is a neutral alternative, widely used in both spoken and written Russian for describing plenty of something.
• "множество" is best for abstract or countable abundance, such as ideas, people, or options, and less for material wealth.
• Be mindful of context when choosing between these translations, as they are not always interchangeable.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "множество" to describe material wealth (e.g., "множество денег" for "abundance of money").
  Correct Usage: Use "изобилие денег" or "обилие денег" instead. "Множество" is more appropriate for countable or abstract items like "множество проблем" (abundance of problems).
• Error: Overusing "изобилие" in casual speech, which can sound overly formal or pretentious.
  Correct Usage: Reserve "изобилие" for written texts or formal contexts; use "обилие" for everyday conversation.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the concept of "изобилие" is often associated with traditional feasts or celebrations, symbolizing hospitality and generosity. Historically, it also ties to the Soviet-era contrast between scarcity and the idealized "abundance" of resources in propaganda.

Related Concepts:

• богатство (wealth)
• достаток (sufficiency)
• роскошь (luxury)