Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'grandeur'

English Word: grandeur

Key Russian Translations:

• величие [vʲɪˈlʲitɕɪje] - [Formal, Literary]
• грандиозность [ɡrɐnˈdʲiəznəsʲtʲ] - [Informal, Descriptive]

Frequency: Medium (Common in literary, historical, or formal contexts, but less frequent in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of abstract concepts and nominal inflections; for 'величие', it's straightforward, but 'грандиозность' may involve more nuanced usage)

Pronunciation (Russian):

величие: [vʲɪˈlʲitɕɪje]

грандиозность: [ɡrɐnˈdʲiəznəsʲtʲ]

Note on величие: The stress falls on the second syllable; be cautious with the palatalized 'л' sound, which is a common challenge for English speakers.

Note on грандиозность: Pronounce the 'г' as a voiced velar fricative; this word has a rolling quality that varies by dialect.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Splendor and impressiveness, especially in appearance or scale

Translation(s) & Context:

• величие - Used in formal or literary contexts to describe majesty, such as in historical architecture or natural wonders.
• грандиозность - Applied in descriptive or everyday contexts for something overwhelmingly large or impressive, like events or projects.

Usage Examples:

• В архитектуре Кремля ощущается величие русской истории.

  In the architecture of the Kremlin, one can feel the grandeur of Russian history.

• Горы Кавказа впечатляют своей грандиозностью и красотой.

  The Caucasus Mountains impress with their grandeur and beauty.

• Его речь была наполнена величием, которое завораживало аудиторию.

  His speech was filled with grandeur that captivated the audience.

• Грандиозность проекта строительства моста превзошла все ожидания.

  The grandeur of the bridge construction project exceeded all expectations.

• Величие природы в заповедниках России оставляет незабываемые впечатления.

  The grandeur of nature in Russia's nature reserves leaves unforgettable impressions.

Abstract or moral grandeur (e.g., dignity or nobility)

Translation(s) & Context:

• величие - Used metaphorically in philosophical or ethical discussions, emphasizing moral elevation.

Usage Examples:

• Величие души человека проявляется в его поступках.

  The grandeur of a person's soul is shown through their actions.

• В его глазах читалось величие, рожденное из преодоления трудностей.

  In his eyes, one could see the grandeur born from overcoming hardships.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

'Величие' is a neuter noun in its singular nominative form. It follows standard Russian nominal inflections for neuter nouns, with some irregularities in certain cases. 'Грандиозность' is a feminine noun and inflects regularly as an abstract noun.

For 'величие' (neuter, singular):

For 'грандиозность' (feminine, singular; follows regular patterns):

Both words are invariant in gender and do not change in standard adjectival agreements, but pay attention to case endings in sentences.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • великость (similar to 'величие' but with a slight emphasis on scale)
  • пышность (more focused on ornate or luxurious aspects, used in decorative contexts)
• Antonyms:
  • ничтожность (implies insignificance or pettiness)
  • скромность (suggests modesty or unpretentiousness)

Related Phrases:

• в величии веков - In the grandeur of centuries (Used to describe historical timelessness or legacy).
• грандиозность замысла - The grandeur of the plan (Refers to the ambitious scale of ideas or projects).
• исполненное величия произведение - A work filled with grandeur (Common in art or literature criticism).

Usage Notes:

'Величие' is the most precise translation for 'grandeur' in formal or literary English contexts, often conveying a sense of majestic dignity. It is typically used in written Russian or speeches, and pairs well with nouns like 'истории' (history) or 'природы' (nature). In contrast, 'грандиозность' is better for everyday or descriptive scenarios, such as describing events, but avoid it in highly formal settings as it can sound less elevated. When choosing between translations, consider the context: if 'grandeur' implies moral or aesthetic depth, opt for 'величие'. Grammatically, both nouns require appropriate case agreements, e.g., in genitive constructions like 'величия империи' (the grandeur of the empire).

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using 'величие' interchangeably with 'б grande' (a direct transliteration error from English). Correct: Avoid creating hybrid words; stick to 'величие' for accuracy. Example of error: "б grande здание" (incorrect). Correct: "Великолепное здание" or properly use 'величие' as "здание с величием".
• Mistake: Forgetting case inflections, e.g., using nominative 'величие' in a genitive context. Correct: In a sentence like "ощущение величия" (feeling of grandeur), ensure proper prepositional case if needed, such as "о величии". Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, which English speakers often overlook, leading to grammatical errors.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, words like 'величие' often evoke the historical grandeur of imperial Russia, as seen in landmarks like the Kremlin or Peterhof. This term carries connotations of national pride and romanticism in literature (e.g., in works by Pushkin), reflecting Russia's vast landscapes and storied past, which can differ from Western interpretations of 'grandeur' that emphasize individual achievement.

Related Concepts:

• слава (fame)
• могущество (power)
• блеск (splendor)