Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'galaxy'

English Word: galaxy

Key Russian Translations:

• галактика /ɡɐˈlaktʲɪkə/ - [Formal, Scientific]

Frequency: Medium (Common in scientific, educational, and astronomical contexts, but not everyday conversation.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate level; requires basic knowledge of Russian nouns and scientific vocabulary, as per CEFR standards.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

галактика: /ɡɐˈlaktʲɪkə/

Note on галактика: The stress is on the third syllable ('lak'). Pronunciation may vary slightly by region, with a soft 'т' sound in standard Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The astronomical system of stars, gas, and dust

Translation(s) & Context:

• галактика - Used in formal or scientific discussions about space and cosmology, such as describing the Milky Way or other stellar systems.

Usage Examples:

• В нашей галактике существует миллиарды звёзд.

  In our galaxy, there are billions of stars. (This example shows the word in a general scientific context, emphasizing scale.)

• Астрономы изучают спиральные галактики в далёком космосе.

  Astronomers study spiral galaxies in the distant cosmos. (Illustrates use in a research or educational setting.)

• Млечный Путь — это наша родная галактика.

  The Milky Way is our home galaxy. (Demonstrates the word in a relatable, everyday astronomical fact.)

• Галактика Андромеды видна невооружённым глазом в тёмную ночь.

  The Andromeda Galaxy is visible to the naked eye on a dark night. (Shows usage in observational astronomy.)

• В фильме показано, как космический корабль путешествует между галактиками.

  In the movie, a spaceship travels between galaxies. (Highlights the word in popular culture or fictional contexts.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Галактика" is a feminine noun in Russian (3rd declension). It follows standard Russian noun declension patterns for feminine nouns ending in -а. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: The word is regular in its declension, with no irregularities, making it straightforward for learners once basic patterns are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • звездная система (star system) - Often used interchangeably in casual scientific discussions, but more general.
  • космическая система (cosmic system) - Emphasizes the broader structure, with a slight focus on space elements.
• Antonyms:
  • планета (planet) - Refers to a single celestial body, contrasting with the vast scale of a galaxy.

Related Phrases:

• Млечный Путь (Milky Way) - Refers to our specific galaxy; used in contexts discussing Earth's place in the universe.
• Спиральная галактика (spiral galaxy) - A type of galaxy structure; common in astronomical descriptions.
• Туманность Андромеды (Andromeda Nebula) - Historical phrase for the Andromeda Galaxy; illustrates evolution in terminology.

Usage Notes:

"Галактика" directly corresponds to the English "galaxy" in scientific and astronomical contexts, but it's primarily formal. English speakers should note that Russian often requires the correct case for grammatical agreement, such as using the genitive case in phrases like "центр галактики" (center of the galaxy). When choosing translations, stick with "галактика" for precision in educational or technical settings, as alternatives like "звездная система" might be too vague. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless discussing space explicitly.

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "в галактика" instead of "в галактике" (in the galaxy).
  Correct: "в галактике" – Explanation: Russian requires the prepositional case for locations, so learners must adjust for context to avoid sounding unnatural.
• Mistake: Confusing with "планета" (planet) due to similar celestial themes.
  Correct: Use "галактика" for systems of stars; "планета" for individual bodies – Explanation: This mix-up stems from overlapping vocabulary in English, but precision is key in Russian to convey accurate meanings.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, words like "галактика" are often tied to a fascination with space exploration, influenced by the Soviet space program's legacy. For instance, the term appears in popular media and education, reflecting Russia's contributions to astronomy, such as Yuri Gagarin's flight. This adds a layer of national pride to discussions about galaxies, making it a symbol of human curiosity and achievement.

Related Concepts:

• звезда (star)
• планета (planet)
• космос (cosmos)
• астронавт (astronaut)