Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'burlesque'

English Word: burlesque

Key Russian Translations:

• бурлеск [burˈlɛsk] - [Formal, Literary]

Frequency: Low (This term is not commonly used in everyday Russian conversation; it's more prevalent in literary, theatrical, or academic contexts.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate, based on CEFR standards; learners need familiarity with cultural imports and basic literary vocabulary to use it correctly.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

бурлеск: [burˈlɛsk]

Note on бурлеск: The stress is on the second syllable ('lɛsk'). Pronunciation may vary slightly in regional dialects, but this IPA reflects standard Russian. Pay attention to the rolled 'r' sound, which is common in Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A comedic or satirical imitation (e.g., a humorous parody of a serious work)

Translation(s) & Context:

• бурлеск - Used in formal literary, theatrical, or artistic contexts to describe a satirical or exaggerated imitation, often in written or performed works.

Usage Examples:

• В театре показывают бурлеск на классическую пьесу Шекспира.

  In the theater, they are showing a burlesque of Shakespeare's classical play. (This example demonstrates the term in a theatrical context, highlighting satire.)

• Его книга — это бурлеск над современной политикой, полный иронии и преувеличений.

  His book is a burlesque of modern politics, full of irony and exaggerations. (Here, it shows usage in literary criticism, emphasizing humorous imitation.)

• В этом фильме режиссер использовал бурлеск, чтобы высмеять социальные нормы.

  In this film, the director used burlesque to mock social norms. (This illustrates the term in a cinematic context, focusing on social satire.)

• Бурлеск в поэзии часто сочетает юмор с критикой, как в работах русских сатириков.

  Burlesque in poetry often combines humor with criticism, as in the works of Russian satirists. (This example shows its application in poetry and cultural references.)

• Актёры репетируют бурлеск для фестиваля, где пародируют исторические события.

  The actors are rehearsing a burlesque for the festival, where they parody historical events. (This demonstrates usage in performance arts, with a focus on historical imitation.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Бурлеск" is a masculine noun borrowed from English/French, and it typically does not undergo regular Russian inflections due to its status as a foreign loanword. However, it can follow basic patterns in certain contexts:

Note: As an unadapted loanword, it often remains unchanged in informal use. For verbs related to it (e.g., if describing an action), you might use derivatives like "использовать бурлеск" (to use burlesque), which follows standard verb patterns.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • пародия (parody) - Often used for lighter, humorous imitations; more common in everyday speech.
  • сатира (satire) - Similar but broader, encompassing critical commentary without the comedic exaggeration.
• Antonyms:
  • трагедия (tragedy) - Represents serious, dramatic forms without humor.
  • драма (drama) - Straightforward storytelling without satirical elements.

Related Phrases:

• бурлеск-шоу - A burlesque show; often refers to theatrical performances with satire (used in entertainment contexts).
• бурлеск в литературе - Burlesque in literature; describes satirical styles in books or poems (common in academic discussions).
• сделать бурлеск - To make a burlesque; implies creating a humorous imitation (used in creative writing or performance).

Usage Notes:

"Бурлеск" directly corresponds to the English "burlesque" as a borrowed term, primarily in formal or artistic settings. It's not used in casual conversation, so English learners should reserve it for discussions about literature, theater, or film. When choosing between synonyms like "пародия" or "сатира," opt for "бурлеск" when emphasizing exaggerated, comedic elements. Grammatically, it functions as a masculine noun and requires standard Russian case agreements, e.g., "в бурлеске" (in the burlesque). Be mindful of cultural nuances, as it often carries a Western influence.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "бурлеск" with "бурлеска" (an incorrect or misused form): Learners might incorrectly decline it as feminine. Correct usage: Use "бурлеск" in nominative and follow proper masculine declensions, e.g., Wrong: "Я видел бурлеска" (incorrect); Right: "Я видел бурлеск" (I saw the burlesque).

• Overusing it in informal contexts: English speakers might apply it casually, but in Russian, it's formal. Wrong: Saying "Это бурлеск!" in a joke; Right: Reserve for literary analysis, e.g., "Это классический бурлеск."

Cultural Notes:

"Бурлеск" entered Russian through Western influences, particularly from French and English literature in the 19th century. It reflects Russia's engagement with European satirical traditions, as seen in works by authors like Pushkin. In modern Russian culture, it's associated with theater and film that critique society humorously, often highlighting the tension between high art and popular entertainment.

Related Concepts:

• пародия
• сатира
• карикатура