Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'irrationally'

English Word: irrationally

Key Russian Translations:

• иррационально [IPA: iratsionalʹno] - [Formal, Academic]

Frequency: Medium (This adverb is used in discussions of logic, psychology, or philosophy, but not in everyday casual conversation.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate, as it involves understanding abstract concepts and formal language; suitable for learners with a solid grasp of Russian grammar and vocabulary.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

иррационально: [iratsionalʹno]

Note on иррационально: The stress falls on the penultimate syllable ('tsio'). Be cautious with the 'r' sound, which is trilled in Russian, and the soft sign (ʹ) indicates a palatalized 'l'. Pronunciation may vary slightly in rapid speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: In a manner that is not based on reason, logic, or rationality; often used to describe behavior, decisions, or thoughts.

Translation(s) & Context:

• иррационально - Used in formal contexts such as philosophy, psychology, or scientific discussions to describe actions that defy logical explanation.

Usage Examples:

• Он часто действует иррационально в стрессовых ситуациях.

  He often acts irrationally in stressful situations.

• Её решение купить дом иррационально, учитывая её финансовое положение.

  Her decision to buy a house is irrationally, considering her financial situation.

• В философии иррационально часто противопоставляется рациональному мышлению.

  In philosophy, irrationally is often contrasted with rational thinking.

• Люди иногда ведут себя иррационально из-за эмоциональных факторов.

  People sometimes behave irrationally due to emotional factors.

• Инвестировать иррационально может привести к финансовым потерям.

  Investing irrationally can lead to financial losses.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

As an adverb derived from the adjective 'иррациональный' (irrational), 'иррационально' does not undergo typical inflections like nouns or adjectives. Russian adverbs like this one remain unchanged regardless of gender, number, or case. For example:

Note: This invariability is common for many Russian adverbs ending in '-o', making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • нелогично (nielogichno) - More general, often used for illogical actions without implying deep irrationality.
  • неразумно (nerazumno) - Emphasizes lack of wisdom or prudence, suitable for everyday contexts.
• Antonyms:
  • рационально (ratsionalʹno) - Directly opposite, meaning in a logical or reasonable manner.
  • логично (logichno) - Meaning logically, often in simpler contexts.

Related Phrases:

• иррациональное поведение - Irrational behavior; used in psychological discussions to describe actions not based on logic.
• иррациональный страх - Irrational fear; common in contexts like phobias or anxiety.
• иррациональная вера - Irrational belief; often appears in philosophical or religious debates.

Usage Notes:

'Иррационально' directly corresponds to the English adverb 'irrationally' and is best used in formal or academic settings, as it carries a connotation of deeper intellectual analysis. Unlike everyday Russian words, it avoids informal speech; for casual conversations, opt for synonyms like 'нелогично'. When translating, ensure the context involves logic or reason—e.g., pair it with verbs like 'вести себя' (to behave) or 'решать' (to decide). If multiple translations are available, choose 'иррационально' for precise, technical accuracy over more colloquial options.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing it with 'иррациональный' (the adjective form) and using it incorrectly in sentences. For example, learners might say 'Он иррациональный' instead of 'Он действует иррационально'.

  Correct: 'Он действует иррационально' (He acts irrationally). Explanation: 'Иррационально' is an adverb and must modify a verb, while 'иррациональный' describes a noun.

• Error: Overusing it in informal contexts, making speech sound unnatural. For instance, saying 'Это иррационально глупо' when 'нелогично' would suffice.

  Correct: Use 'нелогично глупо' in casual talk. Explanation: Reserve 'иррационально' for formal scenarios to maintain appropriate register.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and philosophy, terms like 'иррационально' are heavily influenced by Western thinkers such as Freud or Kant, who discussed irrationality in human behavior. It often appears in discussions of Russian literature (e.g., Dostoevsky's characters exhibiting irrational actions) or modern psychology, reflecting a cultural emphasis on the tension between reason and emotion in Slavic thought.

Related Concepts:

• рациональность (rationality)
• логика (logic)
• эмоциональность (emotionality)