Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'hummingbird'

English Word: hummingbird

Key Russian Translations:

• колибри [kɐˈlʲibrʲi] - [Neutral, used in general contexts]

Frequency: Low (This word is not commonly used in everyday conversation but appears in nature, wildlife, or educational contexts.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1 level, as it involves specialized vocabulary; learners need familiarity with basic noun declensions.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

колибри: [kɐˈlʲibrʲi]

Note on колибри: The stress falls on the second syllable ("li"), which is common in Russian loanwords. Pay attention to the soft 'л' sound, which can be challenging for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The small bird known for hovering and rapid wing movement.

Translation(s) & Context:

• колибри - Used in general descriptive contexts, such as wildlife discussions or nature documentaries; suitable for both formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• В саду я увидел колибри, которая порхала над цветами.

  In the garden, I saw a hummingbird that was fluttering over the flowers.

• Колибри — это удивительная птица, способная зависать в воздухе.

  The hummingbird is an amazing bird capable of hovering in the air.

• В джунглях Амазонки обитают различные виды колибри.

  In the Amazon jungles, various species of hummingbirds inhabit.

• Дети были в восторге от колибри в зоопарке.

  The children were delighted by the hummingbird at the zoo.

• Колибри питается нектаром, используя свой длинный клюв.

  The hummingbird feeds on nectar using its long beak.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Колибри" is a neuter noun in Russian, borrowed from other languages, and follows the third declension pattern with some irregularities due to its foreign origin. It does not change in the nominative singular but inflects in other cases. Below is a table of its declensions:

Note: This word is largely invariable in modern Russian usage, especially in singular form, which makes it easier for learners but less flexible in complex sentences.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: нектарница (nectarnik) - Often used interchangeably for similar bird species; more poetic or literary connotation.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a specific animal term, but conceptually opposite could be larger birds like орел (orel, eagle).

Related Phrases:

• Американский колибри - American hummingbird; A phrase referring to species native to the Americas, often used in ornithology or travel contexts.
• Колибри в полёте - Hummingbird in flight; Describes the bird's unique hovering ability, commonly in descriptive writing or educational materials.
• Цветок для колибри - Flower for hummingbird; Refers to nectar-rich flowers that attract these birds, highlighting ecological relationships.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "колибри" directly corresponds to the English "hummingbird" and is used neutrally across contexts. It is not region-specific but may appear more in scientific or nature-related discussions. When choosing this translation, note that Russian often requires the noun to agree in case with other elements in the sentence, even if the word itself is invariable. For example, use it with adjectives like "красивая колибри" (beautiful hummingbird). If multiple translations exist, "колибри" is the most precise and widely accepted for general use.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as [ko-'li-bri] without the soft 'л' sound. Correct: [kɐˈlʲibrʲi] - English speakers often overlook the palatalization, which alters the word's authenticity. Explanation: In Russian, the 'л' in "колибри" is softened, making it sound like "l-y". Practice with native audio to avoid this.

• Error: Using it in the wrong case, e.g., saying "вижу колибри" when it should be contextually adjusted (though it's invariable, learners might overcomplicate). Correct: Simply use "колибри" as is. Explanation: Since it's largely undeclined, don't add unnecessary endings; this is a common overgeneralization from other nouns.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "колибри" is not deeply embedded in folklore or idioms, as it's a relatively modern loanword from Western languages. However, it symbolizes exotic beauty and agility in literature, often evoking images of tropical regions. In eco-tourism or children's education, it's used to highlight biodiversity, reflecting Russia's interest in global wildlife conservation.

Related Concepts:

• птица (bird)
• нектар (nectar)
• джунгли (jungle)