Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'ingratitude'

English Word: ingratitude

Key Russian Translations:

• неблагодарность /nʲɪblɐˈɡodərnəsʲtʲ/ - [Formal, as a noun referring to the state of being ungrateful]

Frequency: Medium - This word is commonly encountered in literary, ethical, or interpersonal discussions but not in everyday casual conversation.

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate) - Learners at this level should grasp abstract concepts like emotions and behaviors, though mastering its inflections requires familiarity with Russian noun declensions.

Pronunciation (Russian):

неблагодарность: /nʲɪblɐˈɡodərnəsʲtʲ/

Note on неблагодарность: The stress falls on the fourth syllable ("-dar-"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to Russian's variable stress patterns. The palatalized 'н' (/nʲ/) at the beginning may sound softer than in English.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The state of being ungrateful or not appreciating kindness received.

Translation(s) & Context:

• неблагодарность - Used in formal or literary contexts to describe a lack of gratitude, often in moral or psychological discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Его неблагодарность после всех моих усилий разочаровала меня. (His ingratitude after all my efforts disappointed me.)

  English Translation: His ingratitude after all my efforts disappointed me.

• Неблагодарность друзей в трудные времена часто приводит к разрыву отношений. (Ingratitude from friends during tough times often leads to the end of relationships.)

  English Translation: Ingratitude from friends during tough times often leads to the end of relationships.

• В литературе неблагодарность часто изображается как порок, разрушающий общество. (In literature, ingratitude is often depicted as a vice that destroys society.)

  English Translation: In literature, ingratitude is often depicted as a vice that destroys society.

• Её неблагодарность проявилась в отказе даже поблагодарить за помощь. (Her ingratitude showed in her refusal to even thank for the help.)

  English Translation: Her ingratitude showed in her refusal to even thank for the help.

• Неблагодарность ребёнка по отношению к родителям может быть результатом плохого воспитания. (A child's ingratitude toward parents can be the result of poor upbringing.)

  English Translation: A child's ingratitude toward parents can be the result of poor upbringing.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Неблагодарность" is a feminine noun of the first declension in Russian. It follows regular patterns for most cases but requires attention to vowel changes in certain forms. Below is a table of its declensions:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners once basic declension rules are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • безблагодарность - Similar but less common, implying a complete absence of gratitude.
  • отсутствие благодарности - A more descriptive phrase, used in everyday language for nuance.
• Antonyms:
  • благодарность - Directly opposite, meaning gratitude or thankfulness.

Related Phrases:

• Показать неблагодарность - (To show ingratitude) - Used when someone demonstrates a lack of appreciation after receiving help.
• Неблагодарность судьбы - (Ingratitude of fate) - A phrase in literary contexts to express bitterness toward life's unfairness.
• Быть полной неблагодарностью - (To be complete ingratitude) - Emphasizes extreme cases of ungratefulness in personal relationships.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "неблагодарность" directly corresponds to "ingratitude" as an abstract noun, often used in formal writing, ethical discussions, or literature. It is typically employed in contexts involving moral judgments, such as family dynamics or professional relationships. Unlike English, where "ingratitude" might be more versatile, this word carries a slightly more negative connotation in Russian culture. When choosing between synonyms like "безблагодарность," opt for "неблагодарность" in standard usage. Always consider the grammatical case based on sentence structure, as Russian requires agreement with other elements.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing it with "благодарность" by accidentally using the wrong root word. Incorrect: "Он показал благодарность" (meaning he showed gratitude instead of ingratitude). Correct: "Он показал неблагодарность." Explanation: English learners often mix positive and negative roots; remember the prefix "не-" for negation.

• Error: Failing to decline the noun properly in sentences, e.g., using nominative in all cases. Incorrect: "Из-за неблагодарность" (should be genitive). Correct: "Из-за неблагодарности." Explanation: Russian nouns must match the case required by prepositions or verbs, which is a common oversight for beginners.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "неблагодарность" often appears in literature and proverbs, reflecting a strong emphasis on reciprocity and community values. For instance, Russian folklore frequently portrays ingratitude as a moral flaw that leads to isolation, as seen in stories like those of Pushkin, where characters face consequences for their lack of appreciation. This underscores the cultural importance of expressing gratitude to maintain social harmony.

Related Concepts:

• благодарность (gratitude)
• предательство (betrayal)
• эгоизм (egoism)