Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Apace'

English Word: apace

Key Russian Translations:

• быстро [ˈbɨstrə] - [Informal, General Use]
• стремительно [strʲɪˈmʲitʲɪlnə] - [Formal, Literary]

Frequency: Medium (less common in everyday speech, often found in literary or formal contexts)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate) for "быстро"; C1 (Advanced) for "стремительно"

Pronunciation (Russian):

быстро: [ˈbɨstrə]

Note on быстро: Stress falls on the first syllable. The "ы" sound is unique to Russian and can be challenging for English speakers; it is a vowel sound between "i" and "u".

стремительно: [strʲɪˈmʲitʲɪlnə]

Note on стремительно: Stress on the second syllable. Pay attention to the soft consonants (indicated by ʲ) which are pronounced with a slight palatalization.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. At a fast pace (quickly, rapidly)

Translation(s) & Context:

• быстро - Used in everyday contexts to describe quick movement or progress.
• стремительно - Used in formal or literary contexts to emphasize rapid or vigorous action.

Usage Examples:

• Мы шли быстро, чтобы успеть на поезд.

  We walked quickly to catch the train.

• Работа продвигается быстро.

  The work is progressing rapidly.

• События развивались стремительно.

  Events unfolded rapidly.

• Он стремительно поднялся по карьерной лестнице.

  He rose up the career ladder swiftly.

• Время летит быстро, не успеваешь оглянуться.

  Time flies quickly; you don’t even have time to look back.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

быстро: This is an adverb derived from the adjective "быстрый" (fast). As an adverb, it does not change form based on gender, number, or case.

стремительно: This is also an adverb, derived from the adjective "стремительный" (swift, rapid). Like "быстро", it is invariable and does not inflect.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms for быстро:

• скоро
• резво

Note: "скоро" often implies "soon" rather than "quickly"; "резво" is more colloquial and often used for lively or energetic movement.

Synonyms for стремительно:

• бурно
• стремглав

Note: "бурно" often refers to rapid and intense development; "стремглав" is more archaic and implies headlong speed.

Antonyms for both:

• медленно
• постепенно

Related Phrases:

• быстро соображать - To think quickly, to be quick-witted.
• стремительно расти - To grow rapidly (e.g., in context of economy or population).
• быстро на быстрый - Quickly, in a rush (colloquial expression).

Usage Notes:

• "быстро" is the most common and versatile translation of "apace", suitable for both spoken and written Russian in most contexts describing speed or quick progress.
• "стремительно" carries a more formal or dramatic tone and is often used in written language or to emphasize vigorous, almost uncontrollable speed. It may not fit casual conversation.
• English speakers should note that "apace" is somewhat archaic or literary in English, and "стремительно" mirrors this tone better in Russian than "быстро" in certain contexts.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "скоро" instead of "быстро" to mean "quickly". "скоро" primarily means "soon" rather than "fast".

  Incorrect: Я вернусь скоро. (Intending to say "I’ll return quickly.")

  Correct: Я вернусь быстро.

  Explanation: "скоро" refers to timing (soon), while "быстро" refers to speed (quickly).

• Error: Overusing "стремительно" in casual speech, which sounds overly formal or out of place.

  Incorrect: Я стремительно иду домой. (Sounds unnatural in casual context.)

  Correct: Я быстро иду домой.

  Explanation: Reserve "стремительно" for formal writing or contexts emphasizing dramatic speed.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian, the concept of speed, especially when using "стремительно", can carry connotations of urgency or historical change, often seen in literature or discussions of societal shifts (e.g., "стремительно меняющийся мир" - a rapidly changing world). This reflects a cultural appreciation for dramatic narratives in language.

Related Concepts:

• скорость (speed)
• спешка (hurry)
• темп (pace, tempo)