Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'condom'

English Word: condom

Key Russian Translations:

• презерватив [prʲɪzʲɪrvɐˈtʲif] - [Neutral, Most Common]
• кондом [kɐnˈdom] - [Informal, Less Common]

Frequency: Medium

Difficulty: A2 (Beginner-Intermediate) for both translations

Pronunciation (Russian):

презерватив: [prʲɪzʲɪrvɐˈtʲif]

Note on презерватив: Stress falls on the last syllable. The "р" sound is rolled, which may be challenging for non-native speakers.

кондом: [kɐnˈdom]

Note on кондом: Stress on the second syllable. This is a direct borrowing from English, so it may sound more familiar to learners.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. Contraceptive Device

Translation(s) & Context:

• презерватив - Used in neutral, medical, or everyday contexts to refer to a contraceptive device.
• кондом - More informal, often used in casual conversations among younger speakers.

Usage Examples:

• В аптеке можно купить презервативы.

  You can buy condoms at the pharmacy.

• У тебя есть презерватив?

  Do you have a condom?

• Он всегда носит с собой кондом, на всякий случай.

  He always carries a condom with him, just in case.

• Презервативы помогают предотвратить заболевания.

  Condoms help prevent diseases.

• Давай купим кондомы перед вечеринкой.

  Let’s buy condoms before the party.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

презерватив (Masculine Noun):

кондом (Masculine Noun): Follows similar declension patterns as "презерватив" but is less frequently used in formal writing.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms:

• резинка (informal, slang)
• гондон (vulgar, slang - use with caution)

Note: "резинка" is very informal and often used jokingly, while "гондон" is offensive and should be avoided in polite contexts.

Antonyms:

• None directly applicable

Related Phrases:

• надеть презерватив - to put on a condom
• купить презервативы - to buy condoms
• использовать кондом - to use a condom

Usage Notes:

• "презерватив" is the most neutral and widely accepted term for "condom" in Russian, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
• "кондом" is a direct borrowing from English and is more informal, often used by younger speakers or in casual settings.
• Be cautious with slang terms like "резинка" or "гондон," as they can be inappropriate or offensive depending on the context.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "гондон" in a formal or polite context. This term is vulgar and can offend others.
  Correct Usage: Use "презерватив" instead, e.g., "Мне нужен презерватив" (I need a condom).
  Incorrect: "Мне нужен гондон" (highly inappropriate in most contexts).
• Error: Mispronouncing "презерватив" by stressing the wrong syllable.
  Correct Usage: Stress the last syllable [prʲɪzʲɪrvɐˈtʲif], not the first or second.

Cultural Notes:

Discussing topics related to contraception, including the word "condom," may still be considered sensitive in some traditional or conservative Russian-speaking communities. It’s advisable to use neutral language like "презерватив" and avoid slang in formal or unfamiliar settings.

Related Concepts:

• контрацепция (contraception)
• безопасный секс (safe sex)
• профилактика (prevention)