Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'khaki'

English Word: khaki

Key Russian Translations:

• Хаки [ˈxakʲi] - [Informal, Used for colors or clothing, often in military or casual contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in discussions of fashion, military, or colors, but not everyday vocabulary for most speakers)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; As a borrowed word, it's straightforward for learners with basic vocabulary, but pronunciation may pose challenges)

Pronunciation (Russian):

Хаки: [ˈxakʲi]

Note on Хаки: The initial "х" is a voiceless velar fricative, similar to the "ch" in Scottish "loch." Stress is on the first syllable. Variations may occur in regional accents.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: A light yellowish-brown color, often associated with military uniforms or casual clothing

Translation(s) & Context:

• Хаки - Used in contexts describing colors, fashion, or military attire; informal and widely understood in modern Russian.

Usage Examples:

• Его новая куртка цвета хаки идеально подходит для похода в лес.

  His new khaki-colored jacket is perfect for a hike in the forest.

• В армии часто носят форму хаки, чтобы слиться с окружающей средой.

  In the army, they often wear khaki uniforms to blend in with the surroundings.

• Эта ткань хаки очень прочная и практичная для повседневной одежды.

  This khaki fabric is very durable and practical for everyday clothing.

• Дизайнер использовал оттенок хаки в коллекции, чтобы подчеркнуть естественность.

  The designer used a shade of khaki in the collection to emphasize naturalness.

• Купить брюки хаки проще всего в магазинах спортивной одежды.

  It's easiest to buy khaki pants in sports clothing stores.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Хаки" is a neuter noun borrowed from English, and it generally does not inflect in standard Russian due to its status as a foreign word. It remains unchanged in most cases, similar to other loanwords like "джинсы" (jeans). However, it can occasionally be used in plural form for emphasis:

Note: As an indeclinable noun, it does not change for case, number, or gender, which makes it easier for learners but less integrated into traditional Russian grammar.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: Бежевый (beige) - Similar shade, often used interchangeably in casual contexts; Коричневый (brown) - A broader term for related earth tones.
• Antonyms: Белый (white) - Represents the opposite in color spectrum; Чёрный (black) - For stark contrast in fashion or military contexts.

Related Phrases:

• Брюки хаки - Khaki pants; A common phrase for casual or military-style trousers.
• Цвет хаки - Khaki color; Used in descriptions of shades in art or design.
• Форма хаки - Khaki uniform; Refers to military or work attire in specific contexts.

Usage Notes:

"Хаки" directly corresponds to the English "khaki" as a color or fabric type, making it a straightforward borrowing. It's most common in informal or specialized contexts like fashion, military, or outdoor activities. Learners should note that it's gender-neutral and doesn't require agreement with adjectives in Russian sentences. When choosing between synonyms like "бежевый," opt for "хаки" if the exact shade or origin is implied. Avoid overusing it in formal writing, where more native Russian terms might be preferred.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as [kaˈki] instead of [ˈxakʲi]. Correct: The Russian "х" sound is essential; learners from English backgrounds often soften it. Example of error: Saying "каки" (which sounds like "kaki"). Correct usage: "Хаки" with the proper fricative sound.
• Error: Treating it as a fully inflectable noun, e.g., using "хакиго" in genitive. Correct: It remains unchanged; say "цвета хаки" instead of inventing a form.

Cultural Notes:

"Хаки" originates from the British colonial era, where it was used for military uniforms in India, derived from the Urdu word for dust. In Russian culture, it's associated with practicality and camouflage in military contexts, especially during the Soviet era, symbolizing endurance and functionality in harsh environments.

Related Concepts:

• Бежевый
• Коричневый
• Военная форма