Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'dot'

English Word: dot

Key Russian Translations:

• точка /ˈtɐt.kə/ - [Formal, Singular; Used in general, mathematical, or typographical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in everyday language, especially in writing, math, and technology)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner level, as it is a basic noun with straightforward usage)

Pronunciation (Russian):

точка: /ˈtɐt.kə/

Note on точка: The stress falls on the first syllable (/ˈtɐt/), which is common for many Russian nouns. Be mindful of the soft 'т' sound, which can be challenging for beginners.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: A small round mark or point, often used in writing, punctuation, or mathematics.

Translation(s) & Context:

• точка - Used in formal writing, such as punctuation (e.g., at the end of a sentence) or in diagrams; Common in educational and professional settings.

Usage Examples:

• На конце предложения ставится точка.

  At the end of a sentence, a dot is placed.

• В математике точка обозначает десятичную дробь.

  In mathematics, a dot denotes a decimal fraction.

• Точка над i делает букву более читаемой.

  The dot over the i makes the letter more readable.

• В графике точка используется для создания узоров.

  In graphics, a dot is used to create patterns.

• Точка на карте указывает на город.

  The dot on the map indicates a city.

Meaning 2: A small spot or mark on a surface, metaphorically or in informal contexts.

Translation(s) & Context:

• точка - Informal or metaphorical use, such as in descriptions of patterns or minor imperfections; Less common in spoken language but appears in creative writing.

Usage Examples:

• На ткани есть маленькая точка от чернил.

  On the fabric, there's a small dot from ink.

• Эта точка на экране мешает смотреть фильм.

  This dot on the screen is obstructing the movie view.

• В небе появилась яркая точка звезды.

  A bright dot of a star appeared in the sky.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Точка" is a feminine noun in Russian (3rd declension). It follows standard noun inflections for case, number, and gender. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: This noun does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: пятно (spot, but more for stains), точечка (diminutive form, for a very small dot), метка (mark)
• Antonyms: отсутствует (absent, as 'dot' is a specific mark without a direct antonym, but can contrast with 'пустота' for emptiness in broader contexts)

Synonyms like 'пятно' may imply a larger or irregular mark, while 'точечка' adds an affectionate tone.

Related Phrases:

• Точка с запятой - Semicolon; Used in punctuation to separate clauses.
• Точка зрения - Point of view; Refers to an opinion or perspective in discussions.
• Точка опоры - Point of support; A fixed point for leverage, as in physics or metaphorically.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "точка" directly corresponds to the English "dot" in most contexts, but be cautious with punctuation: in Russian, it's used similarly to a period (full stop). It's neutral in formality but can vary by context—formal in writing and informal in speech. When choosing between translations, use "точка" for precise, small marks, and avoid confusion with "пятно" for stains. Grammatically, always decline it according to case for natural sentence flow, e.g., "в точке" (in the dot) for locative contexts.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "точка" interchangeably with "пятно" (stain). Correct: "Точка" is for a precise mark, while "пятно" implies a blot or irregularity. Example of error: *Я увидел пятно на экране* (when meaning a small dot). Correct: Я увидел точку на экране. Explanation: This confusion arises from visual similarities, but "точка" is more geometric.

• Error: Forgetting to decline the noun in sentences. Correct: Always adjust for case, e.g., don't say *Я иду к точка* (incorrect); say Я иду к точке. Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, which English learners often overlook, leading to ungrammatical constructions.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "точка" as in "точка над i" (dot over the i) is sometimes used metaphorically in expressions like "поставить точку" (to put a dot), meaning to finalize or conclude something, similar to "dot the i's and cross the t's" in English. This reflects a cultural emphasis on precision in communication and documentation.

Related Concepts:

• запятая (comma)
• тире (dash)
• метка (mark)