Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'epigram'

English Word: epigram

Key Russian Translations:

• эпиграмма [ɛpʲɪˈɡramə] - [Formal, Literary]

Frequency: Low (This word is not commonly used in everyday Russian conversation but appears in literary or academic contexts.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires familiarity with literary vocabulary and basic noun inflections, as per CEFR standards.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

эпиграмма: [ɛpʲɪˈɡramə]

Note on эпиграмма: The stress falls on the third syllable ("gra"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the palatalized 'pʲ' sound. Pronounce it with a soft, flowing rhythm typical of Russian words.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A short, witty poem or pointed saying, often satirical.

Translation(s) & Context:

• эпиграмма - Used in literary, poetic, or critical contexts, such as in discussions of classical or modern Russian literature.

Usage Examples:

• Эта эпиграмма высмеивает коррупцию в правительстве.

  This epigram mocks corruption in the government.

• Пушкин мастерски писал эпиграммы, полные остроумия и иронии.

  Pushkin masterfully wrote epigrams full of wit and irony.

• В её книге есть несколько эпиграмм, посвященных друзьям.

  In her book, there are several epigrams dedicated to friends.

• Современные поэты используют эпиграмму для социальной критики.

  Modern poets use the epigram for social criticism.

• Эпиграмма может быть короткой, но её смысл глубок и запоминающийся.

  An epigram can be short, but its meaning is profound and memorable.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

The word "эпиграмма" is a feminine noun of the first declension in Russian. It follows regular inflection patterns for most cases but has no irregularities. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: As a literary term, it remains unchanged in its base form across most contexts, with inflections primarily affecting agreement with adjectives or verbs.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • эпigramma (a variant, but essentially the same)
  • афоризм (aphorism) - Often used interchangeably, but афоризм is broader and less satirical.
  • стихотворение (poem) - In a general sense, with a note that it's less specific to wit.
• Antonyms:
  • похвала (praise) - As epigrams are often critical or mocking.

Related Phrases:

• написать эпиграмму - To write an epigram; used in creative writing contexts.
• эпиграмма на кого-то - An epigram about someone; implies a satirical target.
• классическая эпиграмма - A classical epigram; refers to historical literary forms.

Usage Notes:

Эпиграмма directly corresponds to the English "epigram" as a literary device, but in Russian, it is primarily used in formal or artistic settings rather than everyday speech. English speakers should note that Russian often requires the noun to inflect based on case, so always check the context (e.g., use эпиграмму in accusative for direct objects). When choosing between synonyms like афоризм, opt for эпиграмма if the emphasis is on humor or satire. Be mindful of cultural nuances, as epigrams in Russian literature frequently carry historical or social commentary.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing эпиграмма with эпиграф (epigraph, meaning a quote at the beginning of a book). Correct usage: Эпиграмма is a short witty piece, while эпиграф is an introductory quotation. Example of error: "Я написал эпиграф о друге" (incorrect if meant as a witty poem). Correct: "Я написал эпиграмму о друге."

• Error: Failing to inflect properly, e.g., using эпиграмма in all cases. Correct: In genitive, say "книги эпиграммы" (of the epigram book), not "книги эпиграмма."

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, epigrams have a rich history tied to figures like Alexander Pushkin, who used them to satirize society in the 19th century. They often reflect intellectual wit and social critique, embodying the Russian literary tradition of blending humor with profound insight, as seen in works during the Golden Age of Russian poetry.

Related Concepts:

• сонет (sonnet)
• поэма (poem)
• афоризм (aphorism)
• стихотворение (verse)