Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'antithesis'

English Word: antithesis

Key Russian Translations:

• Антитеза /an.tiˈte.zə/ - [Formal, Used in literary, philosophical, or rhetorical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (This word is encountered in academic, literary, and intellectual discussions but not in everyday casual conversation.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate level; requires familiarity with advanced vocabulary and concepts in Russian, as it is a borrowed term often used in formal writing or speeches.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

Антитеза: /an.tiˈte.zə/

Note on Антитеза: The stress falls on the third syllable ("te"), which is common in Russian loanwords. Be mindful of the soft "t" sound in "te," which can be challenging for non-native speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A figure of speech involving the juxtaposition of contrasting ideas for effect.

Translation(s) & Context:

• Антитеза - Used in formal contexts such as literature, rhetoric, or philosophy to describe a direct contrast between two ideas.

Usage Examples:

• В его речи была яркая антитеза между богатством и бедностью.

  In his speech, there was a striking antithesis between wealth and poverty.

• Антитеза в этом стихотворении подчеркивает конфликт персонажей.

  The antithesis in this poem highlights the conflict between the characters.

• Философ использовал антитезу, чтобы противопоставить свободу и порабощение.

  The philosopher used antithesis to contrast freedom and enslavement.

• В эссе автора антитеза между прошлым и будущим создает драматический эффект.

  In the author's essay, the antithesis between the past and the future creates a dramatic effect.

• Антитеза в аргументе делает его более убедительным, показывая противоположные стороны.

  The antithesis in the argument makes it more persuasive by showing opposing sides.

Secondary Meaning: A general opposition or contrast in ideas or principles.

Translation(s) & Context:

• Антитеза - Applied in broader contexts like debates or everyday discussions to denote stark contrasts, though less common in informal speech.

Usage Examples:

• Антитеза между традицией и инновациями часто обсуждается в бизнесе.

  The antithesis between tradition and innovation is often discussed in business.

• Эта антитеза в политике отражает разделение общества.

  This antithesis in politics reflects the division of society.

• Антитеза его взглядов на жизнь и смерть вдохновила многих мыслителей.

  The antithesis of his views on life and death inspired many thinkers.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Антитеза" is a feminine noun (feminine singular) borrowed from Greek via Latin, and it follows the standard first-declension pattern in Russian. It is relatively regular but can vary based on case and number.

Note: This word does not change in gender or have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners once the basic declension is memorized.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Противопоставление (protivopostavleniye) - A more general term for opposition, often used interchangeably but with a broader scope.
  • Контраст (kontrast) - Emphasizes visual or perceptual differences, suitable for artistic contexts.
• Antonyms:
  • Сходство (skhodstvo) - Similarity, highlighting the opposite of contrast.
  • Согласие (soglasiye) - Agreement, used when ideas align rather than oppose.

Related Phrases:

• Яркая антитеза (Yarkaya antitеза) - A striking antithesis; used to describe a vivid contrast in arguments or literature. (Refers to a bold juxtaposition of ideas.)
• Логическая антитеза (Logicheskaya antitеза) - Logical antithesis; common in philosophical discussions. (Implies a reasoned opposition.)
• Риторическая антитеза (Ritoricheskaya antitеза) - Rhetorical antithesis; often in public speaking. (Emphasizes persuasive contrast.)

Usage Notes:

"Антитеза" directly corresponds to the English "antithesis" in formal contexts, such as rhetoric or literature, but it is less flexible in everyday Russian speech. Use it primarily in written or academic settings to avoid sounding overly formal. When choosing between translations like "противопоставление," opt for "антитеза" if the context involves classical rhetoric. Grammatically, ensure it agrees with the case required by the sentence structure, as Russian nouns must inflect.

• Always pair it with prepositions like "между" (between) for clear contrasts.
• In informal conversations, native speakers might prefer simpler terms, so gauge the audience before using.

Common Errors:

One common mistake is confusing "антитеза" with "антитезис" (which is not standard in Russian); always use "антитеза." Learners often forget to inflect it properly, e.g., saying "антитеза" in the genitive case instead of "антитезы." Incorrect: "Обсуждение антитеза" (missing genitive). Correct: "Обсуждение антитезы." This error stems from treating it as an unchangeable loanword, but proper inflection is key for natural Russian.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "антитеза" is frequently associated with literary traditions, such as in the works of 19th-century authors like Pushkin or Tolstoy, who used antithesis to explore themes of duality in human nature. This reflects Russia's historical emphasis on philosophical depth in literature, where contrasts often symbolize broader societal conflicts, such as those between tradition and modernity.

Related Concepts:

• Парадокс (paradoks)
• Диалектика (dialektika)
• Контраст (kontrast)