Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'intellect'

English Word: intellect

Key Russian Translations:

• интеллект [ɪn.tʲɪlʲ.ˈlʲɛkt] - [Formal, used in academic, philosophical, or professional contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in intellectual discussions, literature, and education, but less frequent in everyday casual speech)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires familiarity with Russian nominal declensions and borrowed vocabulary, suitable for learners with a solid intermediate grasp of the language)

Pronunciation (Russian):

интеллект: [ɪn.tʲɪlʲ.ˈlʲɛkt]

Note on интеллект: The stress falls on the third syllable ("lʲɛkt"), which is a common feature in Russian borrowed words. Pay attention to the palatalized 'л' sound, which can be challenging for non-native speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. The capacity for thought, especially abstract reasoning and understanding; intelligence or mental acuity.

Translation(s) & Context:

• интеллект - Used in formal contexts like psychology, philosophy, or education to describe cognitive abilities; often in discussions about human potential or intellectual development.

Usage Examples:

• У него острый интеллект, который помогает в решении сложных задач.

  He has a sharp intellect that helps in solving complex problems.

• Развитие интеллекта является ключевым аспектом современного образования.

  The development of intellect is a key aspect of modern education.

• Её интеллект позволяет ей быстро осваивать новые языки.

  Her intellect allows her to quickly master new languages.

• Интеллект человека формируется не только генетикой, но и окружением.

  A person's intellect is shaped not only by genetics but also by their environment.

• В науке интеллект часто измеряется через тесты на IQ.

  In science, intellect is often measured through IQ tests.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Интеллект" is a masculine noun (from Latin origin) that follows the standard third-declension pattern for many borrowed words in Russian. It is indeclinable in most cases due to its foreign root, but it can show some variation in formal writing. Below is a table outlining its basic forms:

Note: While "интеллект" is often used without inflection in modern Russian, the plural forms are irregular and less common, typically appearing in scientific contexts.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • разум (reason; more focused on logical thinking)
  • ум (mind; emphasizes general cognitive capacity, often in everyday contexts)
  • интеллигентность (intellectuality; implies cultured intelligence)
• Antonyms:
  • глупость (stupidity; direct opposite, implying lack of intellectual ability)
  • невежество (ignorance; suggests absence of knowledge or intellectual development)

Related Phrases:

• интеллектуальный уровень - Intellectual level; Refers to the degree of cognitive ability in educational or professional assessments.
• развитие интеллекта - Development of intellect; Commonly used in contexts discussing personal growth or child education.
• высокий интеллект - High intellect; Describes exceptional mental capabilities, often in psychological evaluations.

Usage Notes:

"Интеллект" is a direct borrowing from Latin via English and French, making it a formal term in Russian that aligns closely with the English "intellect." It is typically restricted to written or academic language rather than casual conversation. When choosing between synonyms like "ум" or "разум," opt for "интеллект" in contexts involving scientific or philosophical discussions for precision. Grammatically, it functions as a masculine noun and requires correct declension in sentences, such as in prepositional phrases (e.g., "о интеллекте" becomes "об интеллекте" due to the preposition rule). Avoid overusing it in informal settings where simpler words like "ум" might suffice.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "интеллект" with "интеллигент": Learners often mix this up, thinking "интеллигент" means the same thing. Error: Using "интеллигент" to mean "intellect" (e.g., "Его интеллигент очень высок" – incorrect). Correct: "Его интеллект очень высок." Explanation: "Интеллигент" refers to an intellectual person or someone refined, not the abstract concept of intellect.
• Incorrect declension: Non-native speakers might forget to decline it properly. Error: "Я думаю о интеллект" (wrong). Correct: "Я думаю об интеллекте." Explanation: The preposition "о" requires the prepositional case, changing the ending to "-е."

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "интеллект" is highly valued and often linked to the historical emphasis on education and literature during the Soviet era and beyond. It embodies the ideal of the "intelligentsia," a social class of educated professionals who played key roles in intellectual and artistic movements. This term can carry connotations of sophistication and critical thinking, reflecting Russia's rich tradition in philosophy and science, such as the works of thinkers like Tolstoy or modern psychologists.

Related Concepts:

• образование (education)
• мышление (thinking)
• когнитивные способности (cognitive abilities)