Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'finite'

English Word: finite

Key Russian Translations:

• конечный (/kɐˈnʲet͡ɕnɨj/) - [Formal, Adjective]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in academic, mathematical, and everyday contexts discussing limits or boundaries)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; requires understanding of Russian adjective declensions, but the word itself is straightforward for learners familiar with basic grammar)

Pronunciation (Russian):

конечный: /kɐˈnʲet͡ɕnɨj/

Note on конечный: The stress is on the third syllable ("nʲet͡ɕ"), and the "ч" sound is a soft palatal fricative, which can be challenging for English speakers. Pronounce it with a quick, crisp "ch" as in "church," but softer.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: Having limits or bounds (general sense)

Translation(s) & Context:

• конечный - Used in formal or scientific contexts to describe something with defined limits, such as time or resources.

Usage Examples:

• Время нашей жизни конечное, поэтому нужно ценить каждый момент.

  The time of our life is finite, so we need to cherish every moment.

• Конечные ресурсы планеты требуют бережного отношения.

  The finite resources of the planet require careful handling.

• Эта задача имеет конечный срок выполнения.

  This task has a finite deadline for completion.

• В математике конечные множества легко перечислять.

  In mathematics, finite sets are easy to enumerate.

Meaning 2: In mathematics, referring to a number or set that is not infinite

Translation(s) & Context:

• конечный - Specifically used in academic or technical contexts, often in discussions of sets, sequences, or quantities.

Usage Examples:

• Конечное число элементов в массиве упрощает алгоритм.

  A finite number of elements in the array simplifies the algorithm.

• В теории множеств конечные множества имеют четкую границу.

  In set theory, finite sets have a clear boundary.

• Этот процесс имеет конечное количество шагов.

  This process has a finite number of steps.

• Конечные группы изучаются в абстрактной алгебре.

  Finite groups are studied in abstract algebra.

• В отличие от бесконечных, конечные последовательности легко суммировать.

  Unlike infinite ones, finite sequences are easy to sum.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Конечный is an adjective in Russian and follows the standard adjective declension patterns. It is a first-declension adjective and changes based on gender, number, and case. Below is a table outlining its inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • ограниченный (limited; often used interchangeably in everyday contexts)
  • завершённый (completed; implies a sense of conclusion)
• Antonyms:
  • бесконечный (infinite; directly opposite in mathematical or conceptual terms)
  • неограниченный (unlimited; emphasizes lack of boundaries)

Related Phrases:

• Конечный ресурс - A finite resource; refers to non-renewable materials like oil.
• Конечная точка - Endpoint or finite point; used in navigation or timelines.
• В конечном счёте - In the end; a common phrase meaning "ultimately" in discussions.

Usage Notes:

• Конечный directly corresponds to the English "finite" in both general and mathematical contexts, but it's more commonly used in formal writing or technical discussions. Be mindful of declensions based on the noun it modifies.
• In informal speech, Russians might prefer synonyms like "ограниченный" for everyday conversations to avoid sounding overly academic.
• When choosing between translations, use "конечный" for precise mathematical or scientific scenarios, as it carries a neutral, objective tone.
• Grammar note: Always agree the adjective with the noun's gender, number, and case, e.g., "конечная проблема" for a feminine noun.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "конечный" without proper declension, e.g., saying "в конечный время" instead of "в конечное время".
  Correct: в конечное время (neuter accusative). Explanation: Adjectives must match the case of the noun; this mistake often stems from direct word-for-word translation from English.
• Error: Confusing it with "бесконечный" in mathematical contexts, leading to opposite meanings.
  Correct: Double-check the context; "конечный" means limited, not endless. Explanation: English learners might overlook the prefix "бес-" which negates the meaning.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and literature, concepts like "finite" often appear in philosophical discussions, such as in works by Tolstoy or Dostoevsky, where the finiteness of life prompts reflections on mortality and purpose. This ties into broader themes of existentialism in Russian thought, emphasizing the value of limited time.

Related Concepts:

• бесконечный
• ограничение
• множество