Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'individuality'

English Word: individuality

Key Russian Translations:

• индивидуальность [ˌɪndʲivʲɪdʊˈalʲnəsʲtʲ] - [Formal, Abstract Noun]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in discussions of personal development, psychology, and philosophy, but not in everyday casual conversation).

Difficulty: B2 (Upper Intermediate; requires understanding of abstract nouns and nuanced vocabulary, as per CEFR standards).

Pronunciation (Russian):

индивидуальность: [ˌɪndʲivʲɪdʊˈalʲnəsʲtʲ]

Note on индивидуальность: The stress falls on the fourth syllable ("alʲnəsʲtʲ"), which can be tricky for English speakers due to the palatalized consonants. Pronounce it with a soft "l" sound, similar to the "l" in "million".

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The quality or character of a particular person or thing that distinguishes them from others.

Translation(s) & Context:

• индивидуальность - Used in formal contexts to describe personal uniqueness, such as in psychology, art, or self-expression; common in written essays or professional discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Её индивидуальность проявляется в выборе необычных цветов для интерьера.

  Her individuality is shown in her choice of unusual colors for the interior.

• В современном обществе важно сохранять свою индивидуальность, несмотря на давление конформизма.

  In modern society, it's important to preserve one's individuality despite the pressure of conformity.

• Развитие индивидуальности у детей начинается с раннего возраста через творческие занятия.

  The development of individuality in children begins at an early age through creative activities.

• Художник подчёркивает индивидуальность персонажей в своих портретах с помощью мелких деталей.

  The artist emphasizes the individuality of characters in his portraits through small details.

• Индивидуальность компании определяется её уникальным подходом к инновациям.

  The individuality of the company is defined by its unique approach to innovations.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Индивидуальность" is a feminine noun in Russian, belonging to the third declension. It follows standard patterns for abstract nouns and inflects based on case, number, and gender. As a singular noun, it does not have a plural form in most contexts, but it can vary by case.

Note: This word is invariant in terms of number (typically singular) and does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward once the basic declension rules are learned.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • личность (lichnost') - Emphasizes personal identity and character, often in psychological contexts.
  • оригинальность (original'nost') - Highlights uniqueness and creativity, with a focus on innovation.
• Antonyms:
  • стандартность (standardnost') - Refers to conformity and lack of distinction.
  • конформизм (konformizm) - Implies blind adherence to norms, often with a negative connotation.

Related Phrases:

• сохранять индивидуальность - To preserve individuality; used in contexts of personal growth or resistance to societal pressures.
• развитие индивидуальности - Development of individuality; common in educational or psychological discussions.
• выразить индивидуальность - To express individuality; often related to art, fashion, or self-presentation.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "индивидуальность" directly corresponds to the English "individuality" as an abstract noun, but it is more commonly used in formal or intellectual settings rather than casual speech. Always ensure it agrees with the case required by the sentence structure; for example, use the genitive form "индивидуальности" after prepositions like "of" in English equivalents. When choosing between synonyms like "личность," opt for "индивидуальность" when focusing on inherent uniqueness rather than overall personality. Be mindful of cultural nuances where individuality might be balanced against collectivism in Russian contexts.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "индивидуальность" with "индивидуализм" (individualism): English learners often mix these, thinking they mean the same thing. Error: Using "индивидуальность" to mean selfish behavior. Correct: "Индивидуализм" refers to individualism as a philosophy, while "индивидуальность" is about personal uniqueness. Example of error: "Его индивидуальность привела к эгоизму" (incorrectly implying selfishness); Correct: "Его индивидуализм привёл к эгоизму."

• Improper declension: Forgetting to change the ending in different cases. Error: Saying "Я ценю индивидуальность" in genitive context instead of "индивидуальности." Correct: In a sentence like "Размышления об индивидуальности," use the prepositional form correctly.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "индивидуальность" often carries a positive connotation related to personal expression in arts and literature, influenced by historical figures like the poets of the Silver Age who emphasized individual creativity. However, it can contrast with the collectivist traditions of Russian society, where group harmony is sometimes prioritized over personal distinction, especially in Soviet-era contexts.

Related Concepts:

• самобытность (samo-bytnost')
• оригинальность (original'nost')
• личность (lichnost')