Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'exceptional'

English Word: exceptional

Key Russian Translations:

• исключительный (/ɪsklʲʊˈt͡ɕɪtʲɪlʲnɨj/) - [Formal, Adjective, Used in descriptive contexts]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in formal writing, education, and professional discussions, but not everyday casual speech)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate, per CEFR; requires understanding of adjective inflections and formal vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

исключительный: /ɪsklʲʊˈt͡ɕɪtʲɪlʲnɨj/

Note on исключительный: The stress is on the fourth syllable (т͡ɕɪ-), and the 'щ' sound is a soft palatal fricative, which can be challenging for English speakers. Variations may occur in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: Outstanding or excellent (referring to something of high quality)

Translation(s) & Context:

• исключительный - Used in formal contexts to describe exceptional skills or achievements, e.g., in academic or professional settings.

Usage Examples:

• Его исключительные способности в математике помогли ему выиграть конкурс.

  His exceptional abilities in mathematics helped him win the competition.

• Эта книга представляет исключительный интерес для историков.

  This book presents exceptional interest for historians.

• В университете ценят исключительных студентов, которые проявляют инициативу.

  At the university, they value exceptional students who show initiative.

• Её исключительный талант в музыке был очевиден с детства.

  Her exceptional talent in music was evident from childhood.

Meaning 2: Unusual or out of the ordinary (referring to something rare or atypical)

Translation(s) & Context:

• исключительный - Applied in contexts where something deviates from the norm, such as in legal or everyday descriptions.

Usage Examples:

• Это исключительное событие заставило всех пересмотреть свои планы.

  This exceptional event forced everyone to rethink their plans.

• В этом регионе исключительные погодные условия встречаются редко.

  In this region, exceptional weather conditions are rare.

• Его исключительное поведение на встрече вызвало удивление коллег.

  His exceptional behavior at the meeting surprised his colleagues.

• Исключительные обстоятельства оправдывают отклонение от правил.

  Exceptional circumstances justify deviating from the rules.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

исключительный is an adjective in Russian, which inflects based on gender, number, and case. It follows the standard first-declension adjective pattern, with no irregularities. Below is a table outlining its inflections:

Note: This word does not change in short form adjectives, but in comparative forms, it becomes исключительнее (more exceptional).

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • выдающийся (vydayushchiysya) - Similar, but often implies prominence; used for famous individuals.
  • необычный (neobychnyy) - For the 'unusual' meaning, emphasizing rarity without positive connotation.
  • отличный (otlichnyy) - Informal synonym for 'excellent', with less formality.
• Antonyms:
  • обычный (obychnyy) - Common or ordinary.
  • средний (sredniy) - Average or mediocre.

Related Phrases:

• исключительное право (isklyuchitel'noye pravo) - Exclusive right; used in legal contexts, e.g., intellectual property.
• в исключительных случаях (v isklyuchitel'nykh sluchayakh) - In exceptional cases; common in regulations or policies.
• исключительный случай (isklyuchitel'nyy sluchay) - Exceptional case; refers to rare situations needing special attention.

Usage Notes:

исключительный is a formal adjective that directly corresponds to the English 'exceptional' in both its positive (outstanding) and neutral (unusual) senses. It is often used in written Russian, such as in academic papers or official documents, rather than casual conversation. When choosing between translations, opt for исключительный when emphasizing excellence; for more neutral 'unusual', it still fits but may overlap with необычный. Grammatically, always ensure it agrees in gender, number, and case with the noun it modifies. For example, in phrases like "exceptional student," use исключительный студент (masculine singular).

• Context tip: In Russian culture, this word can carry a sense of rarity, so it's ideal for highlighting unique achievements.
• Grammar note: Unlike English, Russian adjectives must inflect, so beginners should practice case agreements to avoid errors.

Common Errors:

English learners often misuse исключительный by treating it as invariant, forgetting to change its form based on case. For example:

• Error: "Я видел исключительный фильм" (incorrect if meant in genitive context, e.g., "of an exceptional film").
• Correct: "Я видел фильм исключительного качества" (using genitive: исключительного to agree with качества).
• Explanation: Russian requires adjective-noun agreement; always check the case of the noun and adjust accordingly to maintain grammatical accuracy.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the concept of 'exceptional' often ties to historical or educational contexts, such as praising Soviet-era achievements or modern talents in arts and sciences. For instance, the word might evoke ideas of 'exceptionalism' in literature, like in works by Tolstoy, where exceptional characters drive the narrative, reflecting Russia's emphasis on individual heroism amidst collective society.

Related Concepts:

• выдающийся
• необычный
• талантливый