Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'epigone'

English Word: epigone

Key Russian Translations:

• эпигон [ɛˈpʲi.gən] - [Formal, Literary]

Frequency: Low (This word is rarely used in everyday Russian conversation, primarily appearing in academic, literary, or historical contexts.)

Difficulty: B2 (Upper Intermediate; requires familiarity with borrowed words and nominal inflections, suitable for learners with a solid grasp of Russian grammar and vocabulary.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

эпигон: [ɛˈpʲi.gən]

Note on эпигон: The stress falls on the second syllable ("pi"). The "э" sound is similar to the "e" in "bed," and the "г" is a voiced velar fricative, which may be challenging for English speakers to pronounce distinctly.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A lesser imitator or follower (often implying inferiority to the original)

Translation(s) & Context:

• эпигон - Used in formal, literary, or academic settings to describe someone who mimics a predecessor but lacks originality, such as in art, philosophy, or history.

Usage Examples:

• Он стал эпигоном великих художников своего времени.

  He became an epigone of the great artists of his time.

• В литературе эпигоны часто повторяют стили предшественников без новизны.

  In literature, epigones often repeat the styles of predecessors without any novelty.

• Этот философ считается эпигоном древнегреческих мыслителей.

  This philosopher is considered an epigone of ancient Greek thinkers.

• Эпигоны эпохи романтизма не смогли достичь высот своих учителей.

  The epigones of the Romantic era could not reach the heights of their teachers.

• В современной музыке эпигоны популярных групп копируют их звучание.

  In modern music, epigones of popular bands copy their sound.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Эпигон" is a masculine noun of the second declension in Russian. It follows standard nominal inflections for gender, number, and case. As a borrowed word, it does not have irregular forms, but learners should note its consistent pattern based on Russian grammar rules.

Note: This word does not change in the plural form for all cases as per standard rules, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • подражатель (podrazhatel' - similar but more general, implying simple imitation without the connotation of inferiority)
  • имитатор (imitator - used in everyday contexts, less formal than эпигон)
• Antonyms:
  • оригинал (original - refers to someone or something innovative and authentic)
  • новатор (novator - implies an innovator or pioneer)

Related Phrases:

• эпигоны эпохи (epigones of the era) - Refers to followers or imitators characteristic of a specific historical period, often in cultural or artistic discussions.
• литературные эпигоны (literary epigones) - Describes writers who mimic earlier styles without adding originality, commonly used in literary criticism.
• эпигонство в искусстве (epigonism in art) - A phrase denoting the phenomenon of imitative practices in artistic fields, highlighting its negative implications.

Usage Notes:

"Эпигон" directly corresponds to the English "epigone" as a borrowed term, often used in formal or intellectual contexts to critique lack of originality. It is typically employed in singular form but can be pluralized for groups. Be mindful of its literary tone; avoid using it in casual conversation. When choosing between synonyms like "подражатель," opt for "эпигон" if emphasizing inferiority. Grammatically, ensure correct case agreement, e.g., in prepositional phrases like "об эпигоне" (about the epigone).

Common Errors:

• Mistaking the case: English learners often use the nominative form incorrectly in sentences requiring other cases. For example, incorrect: "Я думаю о эпигон" (should be "о эпигоне"). Correct: "Я думаю о эпигоне" – Remember to change the ending based on the preposition.
• Overgeneralizing: Learners might confuse it with "имитатор" and use it interchangeably, but "эпигон" carries a more negative, historical connotation. Error: Using "эпигон" for simple copying in modern contexts; instead, use "подражатель" for neutrality.
• Pronunciation slip: Forgetting the stress on the second syllable, which can alter perceived meaning. Error: Pronouncing as [ˈɛpʲi.gən]; Correct: [ɛˈpʲi.gən] – Practice with native audio to avoid this.

Cultural Notes:

The term "эпигон" in Russian often evokes references to 19th-century literary debates, such as those in Russian realism, where figures like Turgenev criticized successors of Pushkin and Gogol for lacking innovation. It highlights Russia's cultural emphasis on originality in art and literature, reflecting a broader historical narrative of grappling with Western influences while preserving national identity.

Related Concepts:

• имитатор
• подражатель
• новатор
• оригинальность