Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'egotism'

English Word: egotism

Key Russian Translations:

• Эгоизм [IPA: ɪˈɡoɪz(ə)m] - [Formal, used in psychological, philosophical, or general discussions]
• Эгоцентризм [IPA: ɪɡoʊˈtsɛntrɪz(ə)m] - [Formal, Informal, often in everyday contexts to emphasize self-centered behavior]

Frequency: Medium (This term appears regularly in literature, media, and conversations about personality traits, but is not as common as basic everyday vocabulary.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of abstract concepts and psychological terminology. For "Эгоизм", it is B2; for "Эгоцентризм", it is also B2 due to similar complexity.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

Эгоизм: [IPA: ɪˈɡoɪz(ə)m]

Эгоцентризм: [IPA: ɪɡoʊˈtsɛntrɪz(ə)m]

Note on Эгоизм: The stress is on the second syllable (ɡoɪ), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the soft 'г' sound. Pronunciation may vary slightly in fast speech.

Note on Эгоцентризм: The 'ц' sound is similar to 'ts' in "cats", and the word is longer, making it trickier for beginners. Focus on the emphasis on the third syllable.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: Excessive self-interest or self-centeredness, often with a negative connotation, referring to a person's preoccupation with their own needs over others.

Translation(s) & Context:

• Эгоизм: Used in formal contexts like psychology or philosophy, to describe a personality trait without implying extreme pathology.
• Эгоцентризм: Applied in both formal and informal settings, often in everyday conversations to highlight selfish behavior in social interactions.

Usage Examples:

• Его эгоизм не позволяет ему думать о других людях.

  His egotism doesn't allow him to think about other people. (This example shows the word in a simple declarative sentence, emphasizing personal relationships.)

• В обществе, где преобладает эгоцентризм, трудно строить настоящие дружеские связи.

  In a society where egotism prevails, it's hard to build genuine friendships. (Here, it's used in a broader social context, demonstrating its application in discussions about culture.)

• Эгоизм — это не всегда плохо, но в крайних формах он может разрушить отношения.

  Egotism isn't always bad, but in extreme forms, it can destroy relationships. (This illustrates the word in a nuanced sentence, showing varying degrees of intensity.)

• Она обвинила его в эгоизме, потому что он всегда ставит свои цели выше семейных нужд.

  She accused him of egotism because he always puts his goals above family needs. (This example highlights accusatory language in interpersonal conflicts.)

• Эгоцентризм молодого поколения часто обсуждается в СМИ как социальная проблема.

  The egotism of the younger generation is often discussed in the media as a social issue. (This demonstrates usage in media or analytical contexts, with a plural or generational focus.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both "Эгоизм" and "Эгоцентризм" are masculine nouns in Russian, following the standard patterns for borrowed words. They are indeclinable in most cases due to their foreign origin, meaning they do not change form in different grammatical cases. However, they can still be modified by adjectives or used in various syntactic positions.

Note: These words are relatively stable and do not have irregular inflections, making them easier for learners once the basic cases are memorized.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Самолюбие (Self-love; similar but can imply a more positive self-regard, often used in literary contexts)
  • Эгоистичность (Egotistical nature; more descriptive of behavior than a state)
• Antonyms:
  • Альтруизм (Altruism; directly opposite, emphasizing selflessness)
  • Коллективизм (Collectivism; focuses on group-oriented behavior)

Related Phrases:

• Чрезмерный эгоизм (Excessive egotism) - Refers to an extreme form that harms relationships.
• Эгоизм в отношениях (Egotism in relationships) - Common in discussions about personal dynamics.
• Преодолеть эгоцентризм (To overcome egotism) - Used in self-improvement contexts, implying personal growth.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "Эгоизм" and "Эгоцентризм" closely mirror the English "egotism" but are often more formal. "Эгоизм" is the direct equivalent and is preferred in academic or psychological discussions, while "Эгоцентризм" can be used in everyday speech for a broader sense of self-centeredness. Be mindful of context: in informal settings, Russians might opt for simpler phrases like "он эгоист" (he is an egotist). Grammatically, these nouns are masculine and can be preceded by adjectives (e.g., "большой эгоизм" for "great egotism"). When choosing between translations, use "Эгоизм" for inherent traits and "Эгоцентризм" for behavioral patterns.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "Эгоизм" with "Эго" (ego): English learners often shorten it incorrectly. Error: "Он имеет эго." Correct: "Он имеет эгоизм." Explanation: "Эго" refers to the Freudian concept, not the full trait of egotism.
• Overusing in plural form: Error: "Эгоизмы людей." Correct: "Эгоизм людей" (unless emphasizing multiple instances). Explanation: These words are typically singular; pluralizing can sound unnatural.
• Misplacing stress in pronunciation: Error: Pronouncing as [ɛˈɡoɪzəm] instead of [ɪˈɡoɪz(ə)m]. Correct: Focus on the second syllable. Explanation: This can lead to misunderstandings in spoken Russian.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, concepts like "эгоизм" are often linked to Western individualism, contrasting with traditional collectivist values emphasized in Soviet-era literature and education. For instance, Russian proverbs like "Один в поле не воин" (One in the field is not a warrior) highlight the negative aspects of egotism, promoting community over self-interest.

Related Concepts:

• Нарциссизм (Narcissism)
• Самоуверенность (Self-confidence)
• Альтруизм (Altruism)