Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'ellipse'

English Word: ellipse

Key Russian Translations:

• эллипс [ɪlʲˈips] - [Formal, used in mathematical and scientific contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in academic and technical discussions but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires familiarity with mathematical terminology, as per CEFR standards)

Pronunciation (Russian):

эллипс: [ɪlʲˈips]

Note on эллипс: The stress falls on the second syllable; the 'лʲ' represents a palatalized 'l' sound, which can be challenging for English speakers. Pronounce it with a soft 'l' as in 'million'.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Geometric shape: A curve on a plane surrounding two focal points, such that the sum of the distances to the foci is constant.

Translation(s) & Context:

• эллипс - Used in formal mathematical, scientific, or engineering contexts to describe shapes like planetary orbits.

Usage Examples:

• Русский пример: В математике эллипс является одной из основных кривых второго порядка.

  English translation: In mathematics, the ellipse is one of the basic curves of the second order.

• Русский пример: Земля движится по эллиптической орбите вокруг Солнца.

  English translation: The Earth moves in an elliptical orbit around the Sun.

• Русский пример: Для рисования эллипса используйте компас с двумя центрами.

  English translation: To draw an ellipse, use a compass with two centers.

• Русский пример: В архитектуре эллипс часто применяется для дизайна арок и сводов.

  English translation: In architecture, the ellipse is often used for designing arches and vaults.

• Русский пример: Эллипс отличается от круга тем, что имеет два очага.

  English translation: An ellipse differs from a circle in that it has two foci.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Эллипс" is a masculine noun of the second declension in Russian. It follows standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table of its declensions:

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

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • овал (oval; less precise, as it implies a more rounded shape)
• Antonyms:
  • круг (circle; a shape with equal distances from the center)

Related Phrases:

• Эллиптическая орбита - Refers to an elliptical orbit, commonly used in astronomy to describe planetary paths.
• Эллипс Кеплера - Kepler's ellipse, a phrase from physics relating to planetary motion.
• Рисовать эллипс - To draw an ellipse, used in educational or artistic contexts.

Usage Notes:

"Эллипс" directly corresponds to the English "ellipse" in mathematical contexts, but English speakers should note that Russian often requires the appropriate case based on sentence structure (e.g., genitive for possession). It is primarily formal and technical, so avoid using it in casual conversation. When choosing between translations, "эллипс" is the most accurate for precise geometric meanings; "овал" might be used informally for a similar but less exact shape. Pay attention to gender agreement in adjectives, e.g., "эллиптический" (elliptical).

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "эллипс" with "овал" and using it interchangeably. Incorrect: "Это овал" when meaning a true ellipse. Correct: "Это эллипс" for accuracy in scientific contexts. Explanation: "Овал" implies a more rounded, less precise shape, leading to misunderstandings in technical discussions.

• Error: Forgetting declension, e.g., using nominative in all cases. Incorrect: "Я смотрю на эллипс" in a prepositional context. Correct: "Я смотрю на эллипсе" (on the ellipse). Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, which English speakers often overlook, altering the sentence's meaning.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and education, "эллипс" is prominently featured in mathematics and physics curricula, influenced by historical figures like Nikolai Lobachevsky. It symbolizes precision in scientific thought, often linked to Kepler's laws in astronomy, reflecting Russia's strong tradition in space exploration and theoretical sciences.

Related Concepts:

• круг (circle)
• парабола (parabola)
• гипербола (hyperbola)