Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'illustrious'

English Word: illustrious

Key Russian Translations:

• выдающийся [vɨdaˈjuʂːʲɪjsjə] - [Formal, used in contexts praising achievements or excellence]
• известный [ɪzˈvʲestnɨj] - [General, often for fame or recognition in everyday or neutral contexts]
• славный [ˈslavnɨj] - [Poetic or Literary, used in historical or emotional narratives]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in formal writing, biographies, and academic discussions, but not in everyday casual speech)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate, as it involves understanding nuanced adjectives and their contextual applications; for 'выдающийся', it may be B2, while 'известный' could be A2 for basic forms)

Pronunciation (Russian):

выдающийся: [vɨdaˈjuʂːʲɪjsjə]

известный: [ɪzˈvʲestnɨj]

славный: [ˈslavnɨj]

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

Note on известный: Pronounce the 'з' as a voiced 'z' sound, and the ending 'ый' as a soft, unstressed vowel.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: Famous or renowned for achievements (e.g., in history or accomplishments)

Translation(s) & Context:

• выдающийся - Used in formal contexts like describing historical figures or awards.
• известный - Applied in general contexts, such as public figures or events.

Usage Examples:

• Этот выдающийся ученый изменил мир науки. (This illustrious scientist changed the world of science.)

  English Translation: This illustrious scientist changed the world of science.

• В истории России есть много выдающихся личностей. (In Russian history, there are many illustrious personalities.)

  English Translation: In Russian history, there are many illustrious personalities.

• Известный писатель получил награду за свой вклад. (The illustrious writer received an award for his contribution.)

  English Translation: The illustrious writer received an award for his contribution.

• Его славная карьера вдохновляет молодое поколение. (His illustrious career inspires the younger generation.)

  English Translation: His illustrious career inspires the younger generation.

Meaning 2: Distinguished or excellent in quality (e.g., describing works or events)

Translation(s) & Context:

• выдающийся - In contexts emphasizing excellence, like art or performances.
• славный - In literary or nostalgic contexts, often with a positive connotation.

Usage Examples:

• Выдающийся концерт оперы покорил аудиторию. (The illustrious opera concert captivated the audience.)

  English Translation: The illustrious opera concert captivated the audience.

• Эта книга — выдающийся пример русской литературы. (This book is an illustrious example of Russian literature.)

  English Translation: This book is an illustrious example of Russian literature.

• Славная победа команды запомнится навсегда. (The illustrious victory of the team will be remembered forever.)

  English Translation: The illustrious victory of the team will be remembered forever.

• Известный фестиваль привлекает тысячи посетителей. (The illustrious festival attracts thousands of visitors.)

  English Translation: The illustrious festival attracts thousands of visitors.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

These translations are primarily adjectives, which in Russian undergo changes based on gender, number, and case. 'Выдающийся' and 'известный' follow standard adjective patterns, while 'славный' is similar but can vary in literary use.

For feminine and neuter forms, adjust accordingly (e.g., выдающаяся for feminine singular). These follow regular adjective inflections with no irregularities.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • знаменитый (famous, often interchangeable with известный in media contexts)
  • прославленный (celebrated, with a more heroic connotation)
  • отличный (excellent, but more general and less formal)
• Antonyms:
  • неизвестный (unknown, direct opposite in fame)
  • заурядный (ordinary, implying lack of distinction)

Related Phrases:

• Выдающийся деятель (Illustrious figure) - Refers to a prominent person in history or society.
• Известный факт (Illustrious fact) - A well-known or established truth.
• Славная традиция (Illustrious tradition) - A celebrated or honorable custom, often with cultural significance.
• Выдающийся вклад (Illustrious contribution) - A remarkable input, as in scientific or artistic fields.

Usage Notes:

'Illustrious' corresponds closely to 'выдающийся' in formal English-Russian translations, especially for achievements, but 'известный' is better for general fame. Use 'выдающийся' in academic or professional contexts to convey excellence, while 'славный' suits literary or historical narratives. Be mindful of gender and case agreements in Russian sentences, as adjectives must match the noun they describe. When choosing between translations, opt for 'известный' in everyday speech and 'выдающийся' for emphasis on merit.

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using the base form without inflection, e.g., saying "выдающийся человек" in genitive context instead of "выдающегося человека".
  Correct: Ensure proper case, as in "Я восхищаюсь выдающимся человеком" (I admire the illustrious person).
  Explanation: Russian adjectives must agree in case, number, and gender, which English speakers often overlook.
• Mistake: Confusing 'выдающийся' with 'известный' in formal writing, leading to understatement.
  Correct: Use 'выдающийся' for excellence, e.g., "выдающийся художник" instead of "известный художник".
  Explanation: 'Выдающийся' implies outstanding quality, while 'известный' just means famous, so context matters.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, words like 'выдающийся' often evoke references to historical figures such as Peter the Great or Leo Tolstoy, symbolizing national pride and achievement. This reflects Russia's emphasis on legacy and intellectual heritage, where 'illustrious' individuals are celebrated in literature and education.

Related Concepts:

• талантливый (talented)
• гениальный (genius)
• героический (heroic)
• прославленный (celebrated)