Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'hairspray'

English Word: hairspray

Key Russian Translations:

• Лак для волос [/lak dlʲa vəˈlos/] - [Neutral, commonly used in everyday contexts for personal care products]

Frequency: Medium (This term is encountered in discussions about grooming and cosmetics, but not in general daily conversation.)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, as it involves basic vocabulary related to everyday objects, but requires understanding of compound phrases in Russian.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

Лак для волос: /lak dlʲa vəˈlos/

Note on Лак для волос: The stress falls on the second syllable of "волос" (/vəˈlos/). Pay attention to the soft 'л' in "для," which is a common challenge for English speakers. Pronunciation may vary slightly in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A product used to hold hair in place, typically a spray aerosol.

Translation(s) & Context:

• Лак для волос - Used in casual or formal settings when discussing personal hygiene, beauty routines, or shopping for cosmetics.

Usage Examples:

• Я нанесла лак для волос, чтобы прическа продержалась весь день.

  I applied hairspray so that my hairstyle would last all day.

• В магазине есть разные виды лака для волос: с фиксацией и без.

  In the store, there are different types of hairspray: with hold and without.

• Он всегда использует лак для волос перед важными встречами.

  He always uses hairspray before important meetings.

• Лак для волос может сделать волосы жесткими, если наносить слишком много.

  Hairspray can make hair stiff if you apply too much.

• Купи лак для волос в аптеке; там есть варианты для чувствительной кожи.

  Buy hairspray at the pharmacy; they have options for sensitive skin.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Лак для волос" is a noun phrase where "лак" is a masculine noun of the second declension, and "волос" is part of the genitive phrase indicating possession. "Лак" follows regular declension patterns, while "для волос" remains relatively stable as a prepositional phrase.

Note: The phrase "для волос" does not inflect directly but agrees with the context. For example, in sentences, it might change based on the governing case.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: Спрей для волос (more modern term, often used interchangeably; implies a spray form specifically)
• Спрей-фиксатор (emphasizes the fixing property, commonly used in professional contexts)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a specific product term. However, related opposites might include "шампунь" (shampoo, for cleaning rather than fixing).

Related Phrases:

• Нанести лак для волос - To apply hairspray (Used in routines for styling hair before events).
• Лак с сильной фиксацией - Hairspray with strong hold (Refers to variants that provide extra firmness).
• Органический лак для волос - Organic hairspray (Common in health-conscious contexts, emphasizing natural ingredients).

Usage Notes:

"Лак для волос" directly corresponds to the English "hairspray" as a cosmetic product, but in Russian, it's often part of a broader category of hair care items. Use it in neutral or informal contexts, such as daily conversations about beauty. Be mindful of gender agreement in sentences; for example, pair it with verbs like "нанести" (to apply). If multiple translations exist, choose "спрей для волос" for a more contemporary feel in marketing or urban settings.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "волосы" instead of "волос" in the phrase, e.g., "Лак для волосы" (incorrect plural form). Correct: "Лак для волос" (genitive singular). Explanation: "Волос" is used in the genitive case here and doesn't pluralize in this context; this mistake often stems from overgeneralizing English plural rules.

• Error: Confusing it with "краска для волос" (hair dye), leading to misuse in sentences. Correct: Specify "лак" for holding hair, not coloring. Explanation: These are distinct products, and mixing them up can cause misunderstandings in shopping or grooming discussions.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, hairspray like "Лак для волос" is commonly associated with everyday beauty routines, especially among women, and is featured in media portrayals of fashion and self-care. It's not tied to specific historical events but reflects modern influences from Western cosmetics trends, emphasizing practicality in daily life.

Related Concepts:

• Шампунь
• Гель для волос
• Кондиционер