Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'granite'

English Word: granite

Key Russian Translations:

• гранит [ɡrɐˈnʲit] - [Formal]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in geological, architectural, and everyday contexts, but not as frequent as basic vocabulary like "water").

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate level; learners at this stage can recognize and use it in simple sentences, as it follows standard noun patterns in Russian).

Pronunciation (Russian):

гранит: [ɡrɐˈnʲit]

Note on гранит: The stress is on the second syllable ("nʲit"). Pay attention to the soft "нʲ" sound, which is a palatalized 'n' common in Russian. Non-native speakers might confuse it with a hard 'n' as in English.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A hard, igneous rock used in construction, monuments, and natural formations.

Translation(s) & Context:

• гранит - Used in formal and technical contexts, such as geology, architecture, or describing durable materials.

Usage Examples:

• Этот мост построен из гранита, чтобы выдерживать тяжелые нагрузки.

  This bridge is built from granite to withstand heavy loads.

• Гранит — это популярный материал для памятников в России из-за своей прочности.

  Granite is a popular material for monuments in Russia due to its durability.

• В горах мы нашли огромный валун гранита, который выглядел как древний артефакт.

  In the mountains, we found a huge granite boulder that looked like an ancient artifact.

• Гранит часто используется в кухонных столешницах за свою устойчивость к царапинам.

  Granite is often used in kitchen countertops for its resistance to scratches.

• Во время экскурсии геолог объяснил, как формируется гранит под землей.

  During the tour, the geologist explained how granite forms underground.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Гранит" is a masculine noun in the second declension. It follows standard Russian noun declension patterns, which are regular for most inanimate objects. Below is a table showing its inflections by case and number:

Note: The plural form is used for multiple pieces or types of granite. This declension is regular, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: базальт (bazalt) - Similar in durability but from volcanic origins; диабаз (diabaz) - Used in industrial contexts, with a slightly more technical connotation.
• Antonyms: песчаник (peschanik) - Sandstone, which is softer and more porous.

Related Phrases:

• Гранитный памятник - A granite monument; often used in historical or memorial contexts.
• Гранитные скалы - Granite rocks; refers to natural formations in mountainous areas.
• Из гранита - Made of granite; a common phrase in construction or material descriptions.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "гранит" directly corresponds to the English "granite" as a geological term, but it is more commonly used in formal or technical settings rather than casual conversation. When discussing materials, always consider the context— for example, in architecture, pair it with adjectives like "прочный" (sturdy). If multiple translations exist, "гранит" is the most precise for this word. Learners should note that Russian nouns require agreement in case, number, and gender, so ensure proper declension as shown in the inflections table.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as [ɡrænɪt] (like the English version). Correct: [ɡrɐˈnʲit]. Explanation: Russian has a softer, palatalized 'n' sound, which English speakers often overlook, leading to confusion in listening comprehension.

• Error: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я вижу гранит" instead of "Я вижу гранит" (which is correct here, but in genitive: "цвет гранита" instead of "цвет гранит"). Correct: Always check the sentence structure for proper case agreement to avoid grammatical errors.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, granite is symbolically linked to endurance and permanence, often used in memorials like those in Moscow's Red Square. For instance, Lenin's Mausoleum features granite, representing the unyielding nature of Soviet history. This cultural association can add depth to its usage in literature or discussions about Russian heritage.

Related Concepts:

• базальт (rock type)
• мрамор (marble)
• скала (cliff or rock formation)