Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'cyanide'

English Word: cyanide

Key Russian Translations:

• цианид [tsiˈanʲɪd] - [Formal, Scientific]

Frequency: Low (Primarily used in scientific, medical, and industrial contexts; not common in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate) - Requires familiarity with scientific terminology and Russian noun declensions; suitable for learners with a basic grasp of vocabulary but not beginners

Pronunciation (Russian):

цианид: [tsiˈanʲɪd]

Note on цианид: The stress is on the second syllable ("anʲɪd"). Be mindful of the soft sign (ʲ) which affects the pronunciation of the preceding consonant, making it softer and more palatalized—a common challenge for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Main meaning: A poisonous chemical compound, often referring to cyanide salts used in industry or as a toxin.

Translation(s) & Context:

• цианид - Used in formal scientific, medical, or chemical discussions, such as in toxicology or manufacturing contexts.

Usage Examples:

• В лаборатории обнаружили следы цианида в образце.

  In the laboratory, traces of cyanide were found in the sample.

• Цианид часто упоминается в контексте химических отравлений.

  Cyanide is often mentioned in the context of chemical poisonings.

• Производство ювелирных изделий иногда включает использование цианида для извлечения золота.

  Jewelry production sometimes involves the use of cyanide for extracting gold.

• Врачи предупреждали о рисках, связанных с цианидом в пищевой промышленности.

  Doctors warned about the risks associated with cyanide in the food industry.

• Исследования показали, что цианид может быть нейтрализован специальными антидотами.

  Studies have shown that cyanide can be neutralized with special antidotes.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Цианид" is a masculine noun in Russian, following the standard third declension pattern for inanimate nouns. It undergoes regular inflection based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: The word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners once basic declension rules are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • циан (used in some abbreviated or technical contexts, but less common)
  • Калиевый цианид (for specific types like potassium cyanide, with slight contextual differences)
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as "цианид" is a specific chemical term. However, in broader contexts, antonyms might include "антидот" (antidote) for contrast in toxicity discussions.

Related Phrases:

• Цианид калия - Potassium cyanide; a common industrial compound used in mining and electroplating.
• Цианид натрия - Sodium cyanide; often referenced in chemical safety protocols.
• Отравление цианидом - Cyanide poisoning; a phrase used in medical emergencies to describe toxic exposure.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "цианид" directly corresponds to the English "cyanide" and is used almost exclusively in formal, technical contexts such as chemistry, medicine, or forensics. It is a masculine noun, so ensure proper agreement with adjectives and verbs (e.g., "опасный цианид" for "dangerous cyanide"). When choosing between translations, "цианид" is the most precise and universal; avoid informal alternatives in professional settings. Be aware of its sensitive connotations due to historical uses, and always consider the audience when discussing it.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as [siˈanɪd] without the soft sign (ʲ), which makes it sound like "see-an-id" instead of the correct palatalized version.

  Correct: [tsiˈanʲɪd] – Remember the soft sign for accurate pronunciation; English speakers often overlook this, leading to confusion in listening comprehension.

• Error: Incorrect declension, e.g., using "цианид" in the genitive case as "цианид" instead of "цианида".

  Correct: In a sentence like "наличие цианида" (presence of cyanide), it should be "наличие цианида" to properly indicate possession. This is a common mistake for beginners learning Russian cases.

Cultural Notes:

"Цианид" carries a dark cultural connotation in Russian history, often associated with events like the Holocaust, where cyanide-based gases were used in concentration camps. In modern Russian media and literature, it symbolizes danger and espionage, as seen in works like those by Soviet-era authors discussing chemical warfare. This makes it a word that evokes strong emotional responses, so use it sensitively in conversations.

Related Concepts:

• токсин (toxin)
• яд (poison)
• химическое оружие (chemical weapon)
• антидот (antidote)