Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'basalt'

English Word: basalt

Key Russian Translations:

• базальт [bɐˈzalʲt] - [Formal, Technical]

Frequency: Low (Primarily used in scientific, geological, or educational contexts; not common in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate - Requires familiarity with scientific vocabulary and basic Russian noun declensions)

Pronunciation (Russian):

базальт: [bɐˈzalʲt]

Note on базальт: The stress falls on the second syllable ("zalʲt"). The "лʲ" represents a palatalized "l" sound, which can be challenging for English speakers; it's similar to the "l" in "million" but softer. Pronounce it with a short "a" sound as in "cat."

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A dark, fine-grained volcanic rock.

Translation(s) & Context:

• базальт - Used in geological discussions, scientific reports, or educational materials to refer to this specific type of igneous rock formed from cooled lava.

Usage Examples:

• Вулканы часто извергают базальт, который быстро застывает на поверхности.

  Volcanoes often erupt basalt, which quickly solidifies on the surface.

• Базальт используется в строительстве из-за своей прочности и долговечности.

  Basalt is used in construction due to its strength and durability.

• Геологи изучили образцы базальта с дна океана для понимания тектонических процессов.

  Geologists studied samples of basalt from the ocean floor to understand tectonic processes.

• Этот памятник сделан из базальта, что придает ему уникальный черный цвет.

  This monument is made from basalt, giving it a unique black color.

• В музее выставлены экспонаты базальта из разных регионов мира.

  In the museum, exhibits of basalt from various regions of the world are displayed.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Базальт" is a masculine noun in Russian (мужской род) and follows the standard third declension pattern for inanimate nouns. It has regular inflections based on case and number. Below is a table of its declensions in the singular form (plural is less common but follows similar patterns).

Note: In plural, it becomes "базальты" in nominative, with corresponding changes (e.g., genitive: базальтов). The word is regular and does not have irregular forms.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Вулканическая порода (vulcanic rock) - A broader term, often used interchangeably in casual contexts.
  • Игнеозная порода (igneous rock) - More general, but can refer to basalt specifically in geological discussions.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "базальт" is a specific geological term without clear opposites.

Related Phrases:

• Вулканический базальт - Volcanic basalt; used to specify the origin in geological contexts.
• Базальтовые породы - Basalt rocks; refers to collections or types of basalt in scientific writing.
• Извержение базальта - Eruption of basalt; common in discussions of volcanic activity.

Usage Notes:

"Базальт" directly corresponds to the English "basalt" as a geological term and is used in formal, academic, or professional settings. It is an inanimate masculine noun, so ensure correct declension based on case (e.g., use "базальта" after prepositions like "из" meaning "from"). English learners should note that Russian scientific vocabulary often borrows from English or Latin, making it straightforward, but always check for proper inflection. When choosing translations, "базальт" is the most precise; avoid using more general terms unless the context demands it.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as [baˈzalt] without the palatalized "l" (e.g., saying "bazalt" like in English).

  Correct: [bɐˈzalʲt] - The palatalized "лʲ" is essential; practice with native audio to soften the sound.

• Error: Forgetting to decline the noun (e.g., using "базальт" in all cases).

  Correct: Use appropriate forms like "базальтом" in instrumental case; example: Incorrect: "Я работаю базальт" (wrong), Correct: "Я работаю с базальтом" (I work with basalt).

Cultural Notes:

"Базальт" as a term doesn't carry significant cultural connotations in Russian culture, but it is often associated with Russia's vast geological landscapes, such as the basalt columns in Kamchatka or the Caucasus Mountains. These natural formations are popular in tourism and symbolize the country's volcanic history, which can be tied to national pride in natural resources.

Related Concepts:

• Гранит (granite)
• Лава (lava)
• Вулкан (volcano)
• Игнеозные породы (igneous rocks)