Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'apostasy'

English Word: apostasy

Key Russian Translations:

• апостасия [ɐpɐˈstasʲɪjə] - [Formal]

Frequency: Low (This term is not commonly used in everyday Russian conversation; it appears mostly in religious, historical, or academic contexts.)

Difficulty: Advanced (C1 level or higher, as it involves specialized vocabulary related to religion and philosophy, requiring familiarity with Russian nominal declensions.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

апостасия: [ɐpɐˈstasʲɪjə]

Note on апостасия: The stress falls on the third syllable ('sta'), which is a common feature in borrowed words. Be mindful of the palatalized 's' sound in Russian, which may be challenging for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: The abandonment or renunciation of one's religious faith, principles, or allegiance.

Translation(s) & Context:

• апостасия - Used in formal, religious, or historical contexts to describe defection from faith, often in written or academic discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Его апостасия от веры вызвала большой скандал в общине.

  His apostasy from the faith caused a major scandal in the community.

• В истории церкви апостасия часто вела к экскоммуникации.

  In church history, apostasy often led to excommunication.

• Апостасия политиков от своих идеалов редко остается незамеченной.

  The apostasy of politicians from their ideals is rarely unnoticed.

• Она публично объявила о своей апостасии, что шокировало семью.

  She publicly declared her apostasy, which shocked her family.

• Апостасия в средневековой Европе могла повлечь за собой смертный приговор.

  Apostasy in medieval Europe could result in a death sentence.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Апостасия" is a feminine noun of the first declension in Russian, borrowed from Greek via Latin. It follows standard Russian nominal inflection patterns but is relatively invariable in everyday use due to its formal nature. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The plural forms are less common, as "апостасия" typically refers to individual acts. It does not have irregular inflections, making it straightforward once basic declension rules are learned.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • отречение (renunciation) - More general, often used for disavowal of beliefs or oaths; subtle difference in that it can apply to non-religious contexts.
  • измена (betrayal) - Applies in contexts of loyalty, but with a stronger emotional connotation.
• Antonyms:
  • верность (loyalty) - Emphasizes steadfastness in faith or principles.
  • приверженность (adherence) - Refers to commitment or devotion.

Related Phrases:

• Акт апостасии - An act of apostasy; used in legal or historical discussions to describe a formal renunciation.
• Апостасия веры - Apostasy of faith; common in religious texts to specify abandonment of religious beliefs.
• Обвинение в апостасии - Accusation of apostasy; often appears in contexts of trials or conflicts.

Usage Notes:

This translation corresponds closely to the English "apostasy," particularly in religious or ideological contexts. In Russian, "апостасия" is typically reserved for formal or written language, such as in theological discussions, historical analyses, or legal documents. Avoid using it in casual conversation, as it may sound overly academic. When choosing among synonyms like "отречение," opt for "апостасия" if the context specifically involves religious defection. Grammatically, ensure proper declension based on sentence structure, e.g., use the genitive case after prepositions like "от" (from).

Common Errors:

• Confusing "апостасия" with "ересь" (heresy): English learners might mix these, thinking they mean the same thing. Error: Using "апостасия" to mean a false belief system. Correct: "Апостасия" refers to abandoning one's own faith, while "ересь" means promoting unorthodox views. Example of error: "Его ересь шокировала" (incorrect if meant as apostasy); Correct: "Его апостасия шокировала."

• Incorrect declension: Forgetting to change the ending in different cases, e.g., using nominative "апостасия" in genitive contexts. Error: "Из-за апостасия" (wrong); Correct: "Из-за апостасии." This can make the sentence grammatically incorrect.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and history, "апостасия" carries significant connotations, particularly in the context of the Soviet era, where renouncing religion (often under state pressure) was common. It also relates to Orthodox Christianity, where apostasy has historically led to excommunication or social ostracism. Understanding this term helps English speakers grasp the deep-seated role of religion in Russian society and its portrayal in literature, such as in works by Dostoevsky.

Related Concepts:

• ересь (heresy)
• отступничество (defection or backsliding)
• вероотступничество (religious defection)