Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'amulet'

English Word: amulet

Key Russian Translations:

• амулет [ɐˈmulʲɪt] - [Formal, Literary; Used in contexts involving mysticism or protection]

Frequency: Medium (Common in literary, historical, or cultural discussions, but less frequent in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; Requires basic understanding of Russian noun declensions and vocabulary related to objects and beliefs)

Pronunciation (Russian):

амулет: [ɐˈmulʲɪt]

Note on амулет: The stress falls on the second syllable ("mu-"), which is common in Russian words of foreign origin. Be careful with the soft 'л' sound, pronounced as [lʲ], which may be challenging for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A small object worn to protect against evil, bad luck, or harm

Translation(s) & Context:

• амулет - Typically used in formal, literary, or cultural contexts, such as discussions of folklore or jewelry with protective qualities.

Usage Examples:

• Он всегда носит амулет, подаренный бабушкой, для защиты от злых духов.

  He always wears the amulet given by his grandmother for protection against evil spirits.

• В древних русских легендах амулеты часто изготавливались из серебра и камня.

  In ancient Russian legends, amulets were often made from silver and stone.

• Магазин продаёт амулеты с символами, которые приносят удачу в путешествиях.

  The store sells amulets with symbols that bring luck in travels.

• Девушка повесила амулет на шею, чтобы отпугнуть негативную энергию.

  The girl hung the amulet around her neck to ward off negative energy.

• В музее выставлена коллекция амулетов, использовавшихся в средневековой Руси.

  The museum displays a collection of amulets used in medieval Russia.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Амулет" is a masculine noun of the second declension in Russian. It follows regular patterns for most cases but may vary slightly based on context. Below is a table outlining its inflections for singular and plural forms:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners, but always pay attention to the ending changes based on case and number.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: талисман (talisman; often interchangeable but implies more magical properties), оберег (charm; used in folk contexts with protective connotations)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "amulet" is a specific object; however, проклятье (curse) could be considered conceptually opposite in some contexts.

Related Phrases:

• магический амулет - A magical amulet; Used in fantasy literature or discussions of supernatural items.
• амулет удачи - Amulet of luck; Common in everyday talk about good fortune charms.
• защитный амулет - Protective amulet; Often seen in contexts of personal safety or folklore.

Usage Notes:

"Амулет" directly corresponds to the English "amulet" as a protective object, but in Russian, it is often associated with cultural or historical contexts like Slavic folklore. It is typically used in formal or literary language rather than casual conversation. When choosing between synonyms like "талисман" or "оберег," opt for "амулет" in more neutral or borrowed contexts; "оберег" carries a stronger folkloric nuance. Grammatically, remember to decline it according to Russian case rules, especially in sentences involving possession or direction (e.g., "у меня амулет" for "I have an amulet").

Common Errors:

• Confusing "амулет" with "талисман": Learners might use "амулет" when "талисман" is more appropriate for magical items. Incorrect: "Я ношу талисман для защиты" (if protection is the focus). Correct: "Я ношу амулет для защиты." Explanation: "Амулет" emphasizes protection, while "талисман" highlights luck or magic.

• Forgetting declension: English speakers often forget to change the ending in different cases. Incorrect: "Я видел амулет" in genitive context. Correct: "Я видел амулета" (e.g., "I saw the amulet's design"). Explanation: Always adjust for case to maintain grammatical accuracy in Russian sentences.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, amulets like "амулет" are deeply rooted in Slavic folklore and pagan traditions, often featuring symbols such as the "kolovrat" or protective stones. They symbolize warding off evil spirits and are commonly referenced in literature by authors like Pushkin, reflecting historical beliefs in mysticism and protection against misfortune.

Related Concepts:

• талисман
• оберег
• заговор