Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Cavalry'

English Word: cavalry

Key Russian Translations:

• кавалерия [kɐvɐˈlʲerʲɪjə] - [Formal, Military Context]

Frequency: Medium (often used in historical, military, or literary contexts)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate) - Suitable for learners with basic grammar and vocabulary knowledge

Pronunciation (Russian):

кавалерия: [kɐvɐˈlʲerʲɪjə]

Note on кавалерия: Stress falls on the third syllable ('le'). The 'р' sound is rolled slightly, typical of Russian pronunciation.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. Military Unit on Horseback (Historical Context)

Translation(s) & Context:

• кавалерия - Refers to a military unit of soldiers on horseback, often used in historical or formal military discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Кавалерия сыграла ключевую роль в битве.

  The cavalry played a key role in the battle.

• В XIX веке кавалерия была важной частью армии.

  In the 19th century, cavalry was an important part of the army.

• Командир кавалерии отдал приказ атаковать.

  The cavalry commander gave the order to attack.

• Кавалерия двигалась быстро через поле.

  The cavalry moved quickly across the field.

• Историки изучают тактику кавалерии Наполеона.

  Historians study the tactics of Napoleon's cavalry.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

кавалерия is a feminine noun in Russian. It follows the standard declension pattern for feminine nouns ending in -ия. Below is the declension table:

Note: This noun is typically used in the singular form, as it collectively refers to a unit or concept. Plural forms are rare and context-specific.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms:

• конница (more colloquial, often used in historical texts; implies mounted troops)

Antonyms:

• пехота (infantry, the opposite military unit on foot)

Related Phrases:

• кавалерийский полк - Cavalry regiment (a specific military unit of cavalry)
• кавалерийская атака - Cavalry charge (a tactical maneuver in battle)
• кавалерийский офицер - Cavalry officer (a rank or role within the cavalry)

Usage Notes:

• The Russian word "кавалерия" directly corresponds to the English "cavalry" and is primarily used in formal, historical, or military contexts. It is rarely used in everyday conversation unless discussing history or military strategy.
• Unlike English, where "cavalry" can sometimes metaphorically mean "reinforcements," the Russian term does not carry this figurative meaning. For such contexts, other expressions like "подкрепление" (reinforcements) would be used.
• Be mindful of the grammatical gender (feminine) when using adjectives or verbs with "кавалерия."

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "кавалерия" with "конница." While both can mean "cavalry," "конница" is more colloquial and often used in older texts or folklore. Using "конница" in a formal military discussion might sound outdated or inappropriate.
• Incorrect Example: Конница победила в современной войне. (Incorrect for modern context)
• Correct Example: Кавалерия была решающей силой в той битве. (Appropriate for historical context)
• Error: Misusing grammatical cases. English learners often forget to decline "кавалерия" according to the sentence structure.
• Incorrect Example: Я вижу кавалерия. (Incorrect accusative case)
• Correct Example: Я вижу кавалерию. (Correct accusative case)

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and history, cavalry holds a significant place, especially in the context of the Cossacks (казаки), who were semi-autonomous warrior communities known for their horseback skills. The term "кавалерия" often evokes images of historical battles, such as those during the Napoleonic Wars or the Russian Civil War, where cavalry played a prominent role. Understanding this historical context can enrich the learner's appreciation of the term.

Related Concepts:

• конь (horse)
• пехота (infantry)
• армия (army)
• битва (battle)