Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'hornet'

English Word: hornet

Key Russian Translations:

• шершень [ʃɪrˈʃen] - [Formal, Singular; used in general contexts for the insect]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in discussions about nature, wildlife, or everyday encounters, but not in casual conversation)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner; straightforward vocabulary for basic learners, as it is a simple noun with no complex grammar)

Pronunciation (Russian):

шершень: [ʃɪrˈʃen]

Note on шершень: The stress is on the second syllable ("ʃen"). Pronounce the "ш" as a voiceless postalveolar fricative, similar to the "sh" in "shoe". Be careful with the soft sign "ь" at the end, which softens the preceding consonant but doesn't affect the vowel sound.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A large wasp-like insect known for its sting and aggressive behavior.

Translation(s) & Context:

• шершень - Used in contexts describing wildlife, nature, or potential dangers, such as in gardens or forests. This is the standard term in both formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• В саду я увидел большого шершня, который летал вокруг цветов.

  In the garden, I saw a large hornet flying around the flowers. (This example shows the noun in a nominative case, describing a simple observation in a natural setting.)

• Шершень укусил меня, когда я подошел слишком близко к его гнезду.

  The hornet stung me when I got too close to its nest. (Illustrates the noun in an accusative context, emphasizing danger or interaction.)

• В России шершни часто встречаются в лесах летом.

  In Russia, hornets are often found in forests during the summer. (Demonstrates plural use and cultural/geographical context.)

• Этот шершень выглядит агрессивно, лучше не трогать его.

  This hornet looks aggressive; it's better not to touch it. (Shows the noun with adjectives for description in advisory contexts.)

• Дети учились о шершнях на уроке биологии.

  The children learned about hornets in their biology class. (Highlights educational or formal usage in prepositional phrases.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Шершень" is a masculine noun of the second declension (ending in a consonant). It follows standard Russian noun declension patterns for masculine nouns. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The word is regular in its declension, with no irregularities, making it easy for beginners to learn.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • большая оса (big wasp) - Used when emphasizing size, but less specific than шершень.
  • хищная оса (predatory wasp) - Implies aggressive behavior, often in scientific contexts.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a specific insect noun without natural opposites. However, related concepts might include "мирные насекомые" (peaceful insects) for contrast.

Related Phrases:

• Укус шершня (Hornet sting) - Refers to the painful bite, often used in medical or cautionary contexts.
• Гнездо шершня (Hornet's nest) - Describes the habitat, commonly in discussions about pest control.
• Шершни в саду (Hornets in the garden) - A phrase for everyday warnings about wildlife encounters.

Usage Notes:

"Шершень" directly corresponds to the English "hornet" as a specific type of insect. It is a neutral, everyday noun without strong regional variations in Russian. Use it in formal contexts like scientific writing or informal conversations about nature. Be mindful of gender agreement in sentences, as it is masculine (e.g., "этот шершень" for "this hornet"). If multiple translations exist, choose "шершень" for precision over general terms like "оса". In spoken Russian, it's common in plural forms when discussing groups or threats.

• Grammar tip: Always decline it according to the sentence case for natural flow.
• Cultural tip: Russians may use it metaphorically for something dangerous, but this is rare.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "шершень" with "оса" (wasp): English learners might use "оса" interchangeably, but it's less specific. Error: "Я видел осу" (meaning a general wasp). Correct: "Я видел шершня" for a hornet. Explanation: "Оса" refers to wasps broadly, so specify "шершень" for accuracy.
• Incorrect declension: Forgetting to change the ending, e.g., saying "шершень" in genitive as "шершень" instead of "шершня". Error: "У меня нет шершень" (incorrect). Correct: "У меня нет шершня". Explanation: Proper declension ensures grammatical agreement.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, hornets like "шершень" are often associated with rural life and potential dangers in nature, appearing in folklore as symbols of aggression or unpredictability. For instance, they might be referenced in stories about summer countryside adventures, emphasizing caution in the great outdoors.

Related Concepts:

• оса (wasp)
• пчела (bee)
• насекомое (insect)