Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'flagellum'

English Word: flagellum

Key Russian Translations:

• жгутик [ʐɡuˈtʲik] - [Formal, Scientific, Singular]

Frequency: Low (This term is specialized and primarily used in scientific or academic contexts, not in everyday conversation.)

Difficulty: Advanced (B2-C1 level, as it involves technical vocabulary and understanding of Russian scientific terminology; suitable for learners with biology background.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

жгутик: [ʐɡuˈtʲik]

Note on жгутик: The initial "ж" is a voiced palatal fricative, similar to the "s" in "measure" in English. Stress falls on the second syllable, which can be challenging for beginners due to the consonant clusters.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Biological term for a whip-like appendage on cells used for locomotion.

Translation(s) & Context:

• жгутик - Used in scientific discussions, such as in microbiology or biology textbooks, to describe structures like those on bacteria. Context: Formal academic writing or lectures.

Usage Examples:

• Бактерия использует жгутик для передвижения в жидкой среде.

  The bacterium uses the flagellum for movement in a liquid environment.

• В микробиологии жгутик играет ключевую роль в мобильности микроорганизмов.

  In microbiology, the flagellum plays a key role in the mobility of microorganisms.

• Структура жгутика позволяет клетке ориентироваться в пространстве.

  The structure of the flagellum allows the cell to orient itself in space.

• Исследователи изучают, как жгутик эволюционировал у различных видов бактерий.

  Researchers study how the flagellum has evolved in various species of bacteria.

• Без жгутика некоторые бактерии не могут эффективно колонизировать новые области.

  Without the flagellum, some bacteria cannot effectively colonize new areas.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"жгутик" is a masculine noun (second declension) in Russian, which means it undergoes regular declensions based on case and number. It does not have irregular forms, but learners should note the standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant.

Note: This noun changes predictably with case and number, which is typical for Russian masculine nouns. No special irregularities apply.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • биций (bichiy) - Less common, used in older or specialized biological texts; implies a similar whip-like structure.
  • ресничка (resnichka) - Sometimes used interchangeably in broader contexts, but more specific to cilia-like structures; note the subtle difference in exact biological application.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "жгутик" is a specific anatomical term without a clear opposite in Russian biology vocabulary.

Related Phrases:

• бактериальный жгутик - Bacterial flagellum; used in discussions of microbial motility.
• жгутик эукариот - Eukaryotic flagellum; refers to flagella in more complex cells, often in comparative biology.
• функция жгутика - Function of the flagellum; common in educational contexts to describe its role.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "жгутик" directly corresponds to the English "flagellum" in scientific contexts, but it's essential to use it only in formal or technical settings, as it's not part of everyday language. When translating, ensure the context is biological; for example, avoid confusion with non-scientific uses of similar words. Grammar-wise, always decline it according to Russian case rules, as shown in the inflections table. If multiple translations exist, choose "жгутик" for precision in microbiology, but "ресничка" if the structure is more cilia-like.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "жгутик" without proper declension, e.g., saying "без жгутик" instead of "без жгутика" (genitive case).

  Correct: "Без жгутика бактерия не может двигаться." (Without the flagellum, the bacterium cannot move.)

  Explanation: Russian requires nouns to agree in case; this mistake often occurs due to English's lack of declensions, leading to incomplete sentences.

• Error: Confusing "жгутик" with "ресничка," using it for cilia instead of flagella.

  Correct: Use "жгутик" for flagella and "ресничка" for cilia to maintain accuracy.

  Explanation: These terms are not interchangeable; misuse can lead to misunderstandings in scientific communication.

Cultural Notes:

"Жгутик" as a term doesn't carry significant cultural or historical connotations beyond its scientific origins, which stem from general biological research. However, in Russian scientific literature, it reflects the influence of Western biology on Russian academia, particularly during the Soviet era when microbiology advanced rapidly.

Related Concepts:

• ресничка
• псевдоподий
• микроорганизм