Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'faucet'

English Word: faucet

Key Russian Translations:

• кран (/kran/) - [Common, Everyday Usage; Masculine Noun]

Frequency: Medium - The word is commonly used in everyday contexts related to household items, plumbing, and utilities in Russian-speaking regions.

Difficulty: A1 - Beginner level, as it is a basic noun with straightforward pronunciation and usage, making it accessible for new learners of Russian.

Pronunciation (Russian):

кран: /kran/ (The 'к' is a hard velar stop, similar to the 'k' in 'key'; the 'р' is a trilled 'r'.)

Note on кран: Be mindful of the rolled 'r' sound, which can be challenging for English speakers; in some dialects, it may be softened but remains distinct in standard Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A device for controlling the flow of liquid, typically water, from a pipe.

Translation(s) & Context:

• кран - Used in everyday contexts for household plumbing, such as in kitchens or bathrooms; common in both formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• Я повернул кран, чтобы набрать воды в стакан. (I turned the faucet to fill a glass with water.)

  This example shows the noun in a simple action context, demonstrating basic verb-noun interaction.

• В ванной сломан кран, и вода течёт без остановки. (The faucet in the bathroom is broken, and water is flowing nonstop.)

  Here, it illustrates the noun in a problem-solving scenario, common in daily conversations about maintenance.

• Не забывайте закрывать кран после использования. (Don't forget to turn off the faucet after use.)

  This highlights imperative usage in instructions, emphasizing environmental or resource conservation.

• Кран в парке был старым, но всё ещё работал. (The faucet in the park was old but still functioning.)

  Demonstrates the noun in a public or outdoor setting, showing its versatility beyond domestic use.

• Дети играли с краном, имитируя пожарных. (The children played with the faucet, pretending to be firefighters.)

  This example incorporates the word in playful or creative contexts, illustrating its use in storytelling.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

The word "кран" is a masculine noun in the second declension. It follows regular patterns for Russian nouns, with changes based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The word is invariant in terms of gender and does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • водопроводный кран - Specifically for plumbing contexts; implies a more technical or formal setting.
  • краник - A diminutive form, used for smaller faucets or in affectionate/informal speech.
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as "кран" is a neutral object noun. However, conceptually, it could contrast with "закрытый кран" (closed faucet) vs. an open one, but no standard antonym exists.

Related Phrases:

• Открыть кран - To turn on the faucet; used in instructions for daily tasks or emergencies.
• Закрыть кран - To turn off the faucet; often in contexts promoting water conservation.
• Повернуть кран - To twist the faucet; implies a specific action in plumbing or DIY scenarios.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "кран" directly corresponds to the English "faucet" in most contexts, particularly for household and plumbing applications. It is versatile and can be used in both formal (e.g., technical manuals) and informal (e.g., casual conversations) settings. Note that in Russian, nouns like "кран" must agree in case with other elements in the sentence, which is a key grammatical feature. When choosing between synonyms like "краник," opt for it in diminutive or endearing contexts to add nuance. Always consider the context: in urban Russia, it's a common term, but regional dialects might vary slightly.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "кран" in the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я иду к кран" instead of "Я иду к крану" (I am going to the faucet). Correct: Я иду к крану. Explanation: Russian requires the dative case for direction, so learners must adjust for prepositions like "к" (to).

• Error: Confusing "кран" with "крен" (tilt or list, as in a ship's tilt). Correct: Use "кран" only for faucets. Explanation: These words sound similar but have entirely different meanings, leading to misunderstandings in context.

• Error: Forgetting plural forms in lists, e.g., "Я купил кран" when referring to multiple items. Correct: Я купил краны. Explanation: Always match number and case for accuracy in Russian sentence structure.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "кран" often appears in contexts related to resource management, such as water conservation campaigns, due to historical shortages in some regions. For instance, during Soviet times, public faucets in communal apartments symbolized shared living spaces, reflecting themes of collectivism and practicality in everyday life.

Related Concepts:

• водопровод (water supply system)
• труба (pipe)
• краник (small faucet or valve)