Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'jade'

English Word: jade

Key Russian Translations:

• нефрит /nʲɪˈfrʲit/ - [Formal, used for the gemstone, typically referring to nephrite]
• яшма /ˈjaʂmə/ - [Formal, sometimes used interchangeably but more specific to jasper-like varieties]

Frequency: Medium (Common in contexts like jewelry, geology, and cultural discussions, but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; requires basic understanding of Russian nouns and vocabulary related to materials and nature)

Pronunciation (Russian):

нефрит: /nʲɪˈfrʲit/ (The stress is on the second syllable; the 'н' is palatalized, which is a common feature in Russian words starting with 'н')

Note on нефрит: Pay attention to the palatalized 'н' sound, which can be tricky for English speakers; it sounds softer, like in "new" but more pronounced.

Audio: []

яшма: /ˈjaʂmə/ (Stress on the first syllable; the 'ш' is a voiceless postalveolar fricative, similar to 'sh' in 'sheh')

Note on яшма: The 'я' at the beginning creates a soft, vowel-like sound; ensure to differentiate it from similar words like 'яма' (pit).

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: A hard, typically green stone used for ornaments, jewelry, or implements.

Translation(s) & Context:

• нефрит - Used in formal or scientific contexts, such as describing gemstones in jewelry or cultural artifacts.
• яшма - Applied when referring to varieties that resemble jasper, often in geological or artistic discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Этот нефрит используется в ювелирных изделиях за свою прочность и красоту.

  This jade is used in jewelry for its durability and beauty.

• В музее выставлена коллекция яшмы из разных регионов России.

  In the museum, there is a collection of jade from various regions of Russia.

• Нефрит часто ассоциируется с древними китайскими традициями, но в России его тоже ценят.

  Jade is often associated with ancient Chinese traditions, but it is also valued in Russia.

• Яшма в этом кольце придает ему уникальный зеленый оттенок.

  The jade in this ring gives it a unique green shade.

• Мастера резьбы по нефриту создают настоящие произведения искусства.

  Masters of jade carving create true works of art.

Meaning 2: (Less common) A name for a person (e.g., Jade as a first name).

Translation(s) & Context:

• Джейд - Used as a transliteration in modern contexts, such as in international names or pop culture.

Usage Examples:

• Джейд - популярное имя для девочек в англоязычных странах, но в России оно звучит экзотично.

  Jade is a popular name for girls in English-speaking countries, but in Russia, it sounds exotic.

• В фильме главная героиня по имени Джейд борется за справедливость.

  In the movie, the main heroine named Jade fights for justice.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both "нефрит" and "яшма" are masculine nouns in Russian. They follow standard declension patterns for inanimate masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table for "нефрит" as an example; "яшма" follows a similar pattern.

Note: These nouns do not have irregular inflections, making them relatively straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • драгоценный камень (precious stone) - A broader term for gems.
  • зеленый камень (green stone) - Emphasizes color, often used informally.
• Antonyms:
  • некачественный материал (low-quality material) - In contexts comparing value.

Related Phrases:

• Нефритовое ожерелье - A jade necklace; commonly used in fashion or jewelry descriptions.
• Яшма в декоре - Jade in decoration; refers to using jade in interior design or art.
• Драгоценный нефрит - Precious jade; highlights its value in cultural or economic contexts.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "нефрит" is the most precise translation for jade as a gemstone, especially nephrite, and is preferred in formal writing or scientific discussions. "Яшма" might be confused with jasper, so use it carefully based on context. English speakers should note that Russian nouns require case agreement, so "jade" will change form depending on its role in the sentence (e.g., genitive for possession). When choosing between translations, opt for "нефрит" in general contexts and "яшма" for specific geological references.

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using "нефрит" interchangeably with "яшма" without context. Correct: Specify based on type (e.g., "нефрит для ювелирки"). Incorrect: "Яшма в ювелирке" if it should be nephrite. Explanation: This can lead to confusion in material descriptions; always check the exact variety of jade.
• Mistake: Forgetting case endings, e.g., saying "Я люблю нефрит" but incorrectly using it in other cases. Correct: "Я люблю нефрит" (nominative) vs. "У меня есть нефрита" (genitive). Explanation: Russian grammar requires proper inflection, which English learners often overlook, resulting in grammatically incorrect sentences.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, jade (нефрит) holds significance in art and folklore, often linked to ancient Siberian artifacts and traditional craftsmanship. It symbolizes durability and beauty, similar to its role in Chinese culture, and is featured in Russian museums as a representation of natural resources and historical trade routes.

Related Concepts:

• аметист (amethyst)
• изумруд (emerald)
• драгоценные камни (precious stones)