Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Demon'

English Word: demon

Key Russian Translations:

• демон [ˈdʲemən] - [Formal, Neutral]
• бес [ˈbʲes] - [Informal, Often Negative or Folklore Context]

Frequency: Medium

Difficulty: A2 (Beginner-Intermediate for "демон"); B1 (Intermediate for "бес" due to cultural nuances)

Pronunciation (Russian):

демон: [ˈdʲemən]

Note on демон: The stress is on the first syllable. The 'д' is palatalized, sounding softer than an English 'd'.

бес: [ˈbʲes]

Note on бес: The stress is on the single syllable. The 'е' sounds like 'ye' in 'yes' due to palatalization of 'б'.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. Supernatural Evil Being (Literal)

Translation(s) & Context:

• демон - Used in formal, literary, or religious contexts to refer to a demon or evil spirit.
• бес - More colloquial, often used in folklore or to express irritation (e.g., "this annoying demon").

Usage Examples:

• В старых текстах демон описывается как падший ангел.

  In ancient texts, a demon is described as a fallen angel.

• Этот бес не даёт мне покоя!

  This demon won't leave me alone! (colloquial, expressing annoyance)

• Демон явился во сне и предсказал будущее.

  A demon appeared in a dream and predicted the future.

2. Metaphorical (Person or Thing Causing Trouble)

Translation(s) & Context:

• бес - Commonly used metaphorically to describe a troublesome person or thing.

Usage Examples:

• Этот ребёнок — настоящий бес!

  This child is a real demon! (meaning mischievous or troublesome)

• Бесы сомнений терзают мою душу.

  Demons of doubt torment my soul. (literary, metaphorical)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

демон (Masculine Noun, Animate):

бес (Masculine Noun, Animate):

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

Synonyms for демон/бес:

• чёрт (more colloquial, often used for "devil")
• дьявол (stronger, often "devil" in religious contexts)

Note: "чёрт" is more informal and can be used as an exclamation, while "дьявол" carries a heavier, more serious tone.

Antonyms for демон/бес:

• ангел (angel)

Related Phrases:

• бес попутал - Literally "a demon misled me," used to admit a mistake or bad behavior.
• демон скорости - "Demon of speed," often used metaphorically for a fast driver or racer.
• бесы в душе - "Demons in the soul," referring to inner struggles or doubts.

Usage Notes:

• "демон" is the more neutral and formal term for "demon," suitable for literary or academic discussions. It directly corresponds to the English "demon" in most contexts.
• "бес" is more colloquial and often carries a negative or folklore connotation. It can also be used metaphorically for mischievous behavior, unlike "демон."
• Be mindful of the context when choosing between "демон" and "бес." For religious or serious discussions, "демон" is safer; for casual or expressive speech, "бес" is more common.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "бес" in formal writing or religious contexts.
  Incorrect: В Библии описан бес, который искушал людей.
  Correct: В Библии описан демон, который искушал людей.
  Explanation: "бес" sounds too colloquial for serious or religious texts; "демон" is the appropriate choice.
• Error: Misusing plural forms due to irregular declension.
  Incorrect: Я видел много бесовов.
  Correct: Я видел много бесов.
  Explanation: The genitive plural of "бес" is "бесов," not "бесовов." Pay attention to declension tables.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian folklore and literature, demons like "бес" often appear as mischievous or malevolent spirits, deeply tied to Slavic mythology. The term "бес" also appears in famous works like Dostoevsky's "The Possessed" (originally titled "Бесы"), where it symbolizes inner turmoil and societal chaos. Understanding these cultural layers can enrich the usage of such terms.

Related Concepts:

• чёрт (devil, imp)
• дьявол (devil, Satan)
• нечистая сила (evil force, unclean spirit)