Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'Eskimo'

English Word: Eskimo

Key Russian Translations:

• эскимос [ɪsʲˈkʲiməs] - [Noun, Singular, Formal; Refers to a member of the indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions]

Frequency: Medium (This term is not everyday vocabulary but appears in discussions of anthropology, history, or geography.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; Requires understanding of cultural sensitivities and basic noun inflections in Russian.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

эскимос: [ɪsʲˈkʲiməs]

Note on эскимос: The stress is on the second syllable. Be cautious with the palatalized 's' sound ([sʲ]), which is a common challenge for English speakers. Variations may occur in dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A member of indigenous Arctic peoples, historically inhabiting regions of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Siberia.

Translation(s) & Context:

• эскимос - Used in formal or academic contexts to describe cultural or historical topics; avoid in casual conversation due to potential sensitivities.

Usage Examples:

• В Арктике живут эскимосы, которые адаптировались к экстремальным условиям.

  In the Arctic, Eskimos live who have adapted to extreme conditions.

• Эскимос использует традиционные методы охоты, такие как ловля тюленей.

  An Eskimo uses traditional hunting methods, such as catching seals.

• В музее есть экспонаты, связанные с культурой эскимосов.

  In the museum, there are exhibits related to Eskimo culture.

• Эскимосы говорят на языках, которые отличаются от русского.

  Eskimos speak languages that differ from Russian.

• Современные эскимосы сохраняют свои обычаи, несмотря на глобализацию.

  Modern Eskimos preserve their customs despite globalization.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"эскимос" is a masculine noun of the first declension in Russian. It follows standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: The word is regular and does not have irregular forms, but always check for context-specific usage.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: инуит (Inuit; more specific and preferred in modern contexts), абориген (aborigine; broader term for indigenous peoples)
• Explanation: "Инуит" is often a more accurate synonym in contemporary discussions, emphasizing specific cultural groups, while "абориген" is more general and less precise.
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as this is a cultural term rather than a polar opposite concept.

Related Phrases:

• Культура эскимосов - Culture of the Eskimos; Refers to traditional practices and heritage.
• Эскимосские иглу - Eskimo igloos; Common phrase for describing traditional dwellings.
• Традиции эскимосов - Traditions of the Eskimos; Used in discussions of customs and folklore.

Usage Notes:

The Russian term "эскимос" directly corresponds to the English "Eskimo" but is considered outdated or potentially insensitive in some contexts, similar to English. Use it primarily in formal, academic, or historical discussions. In everyday Russian, opt for more specific terms like "инуит" to respect cultural nuances. Grammatically, it functions as a standard masculine noun, so pay attention to case endings when constructing sentences. When choosing between translations, select based on the context: "эскимос" for broader historical references, but verify audience sensitivity.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "эскимос" in plural without proper inflection, e.g., saying "эскимос" instead of "эскимосы".
  Correct: "Эскимосы живут в Арктике" (Eskimos live in the Arctic).
  Explanation: Russian requires correct plural forms; neglecting this can make the sentence grammatically incorrect.
• Error: Confusing it with similar terms, e.g., using "эскимос" to mean any Arctic resident, which oversimplifies.
  Correct: Specify with phrases like "эскимосы из Сибири" for precision.
  Explanation: This term has cultural connotations, so inaccurate use can lead to misunderstandings or offense.

Cultural Notes:

The term "эскимос" in Russian, like in English, originates from European explorations and can carry colonial undertones. In modern Russian discourse, it's often replaced with "инуит" to acknowledge indigenous identities and avoid stereotypes. Understanding this reflects Russia's own multicultural history, particularly in Siberia, where similar indigenous groups reside.

Related Concepts:

• инуит
• тундра
• северные народы