Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'individualism'

English Word: individualism

Key Russian Translations:

• индивидуализм [ˌindividuaˈlizm] - [Formal, used in academic, philosophical, or social contexts]

Frequency: Medium - This term is not everyday vocabulary but appears frequently in intellectual discussions, literature, and media related to philosophy, sociology, or politics.

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate) - Learners at this level should grasp abstract concepts, though the word's borrowed nature from English may make it easier for those familiar with Western ideas.

Pronunciation (Russian):

индивидуализм: [ˌindividuaˈlizm]

Note on индивидуализм: The stress falls on the fourth syllable ("li-"), which is common in Russian borrowed words. Pronunciation may vary slightly in fast speech, potentially softening the 'd' sound.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: The principle of independent thought and action, emphasizing personal freedom and self-reliance over group conformity.

Translation(s) & Context:

• индивидуализм - Used in formal discussions of philosophy, politics, or culture to describe Western ideals, such as in critiques of capitalism or personal development.

Usage Examples:

• В американской культуре индивидуализм ценится выше коллективных интересов.

  In American culture, individualism is valued above collective interests.

• Индивидуализм часто противопоставляется коллективизму в философских дебатах.

  Individualism is often contrasted with collectivism in philosophical debates.

• Современный индивидуализм проявляется в выборе карьеры, основанном на личных амбициях.

  Modern individualism manifests in career choices based on personal ambitions.

• Индивидуализм может привести к изоляции, если не сбалансирован социальными связями.

  Individualism can lead to isolation if not balanced with social connections.

• В литературе XIX века индивидуализм стал ключевой темой для многих авторов.

  In 19th-century literature, individualism became a key theme for many authors.

Meaning 2: A social theory or movement promoting the rights and interests of the individual as opposed to the group.

Translation(s) & Context:

• индивидуализм - Applied in historical or political contexts, such as discussions of Enlightenment thinkers or modern libertarianism.

Usage Examples:

• Индивидуализм Джона Локка повлиял на формирование американской конституции.

  John Locke's individualism influenced the formation of the American Constitution.

• В постсоветской России индивидуализм начал набирать популярность после эры коллективизма.

  In post-Soviet Russia, individualism began to gain popularity after the era of collectivism.

• Индивидуализм в бизнесе подчеркивает инновации, инициированные отдельными предпринимателями.

  Individualism in business emphasizes innovations initiated by individual entrepreneurs.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Индивидуализм" is a masculine noun (мужской род) borrowed from English/French, and it follows standard Russian declension patterns for nouns ending in -изм (which are often indeclinable or have limited changes). It is generally indeclinable in modern usage, meaning it does not change form in most cases. However, for completeness, here is a basic inflection table:

Note: In informal or modern usage, it often remains unchanged (e.g., "об индивидуализм" instead of full declension), especially in fixed phrases.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: эгоизм (egoism, with a more negative connotation of selfishness), личный интерес (personal interest, less formal)
• Antonyms: коллективизм (collectivism, emphasizing group over individual)

Related Phrases:

• Американский индивидуализм - Refers to the cultural emphasis on personal freedom in the US.
• Культура индивидуализма - Describes societies that prioritize individual rights and achievements.
• Индивидуализм в искусстве - Used for artistic movements focusing on personal expression.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "индивидуализм" directly corresponds to the English "individualism" but is more commonly used in formal, academic, or critical contexts rather than everyday conversation. It often carries a neutral to positive connotation in discussions of Western philosophy, but in Russian cultural discourse, it may imply criticism if contrasted with traditional collectivist values. When choosing between translations, use "индивидуализм" for precise philosophical terms; for everyday scenarios, opt for paraphrases like "личная свобода" to avoid sounding overly formal. Grammatically, it functions as a nominative noun and can be modified with adjectives (e.g., "радикальный индивидуализм").

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "индивидуализм" with "индивидуальность" (individuality), which refers to unique personal traits rather than a philosophical principle. Incorrect: "Индивидуализм человека делает его уникальным." Correct: "Индивидуальность человека делает его уникальным." Explanation: "Индивидуализм" is about ideology, not personal characteristics.

• Error: Overusing the word in informal speech, making it sound unnatural. Incorrect: "В повседневной жизни я практикую индивидуализм." Correct: "В повседневной жизни я ценю личную свободу." Explanation: In casual contexts, Russians might use simpler phrases to convey the idea without the borrowed term.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "индивидуализм" is often viewed through the lens of historical collectivism promoted during the Soviet era. It can symbolize Western influences, sometimes positively as a path to innovation, but negatively as a source of social fragmentation. For instance, in post-Soviet Russia, embracing individualism has been linked to economic reforms and globalization, reflecting a shift from communal values to personal ambition.

Related Concepts:

• коллективизм
• личная свобода
• эгоизм