Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'mechanism'

English Word: mechanism

Key Russian Translations:

• механизм [mʲɪxɐˈnʲizm] - [Formal, Technical]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in technical, scientific, and everyday contexts, but not as frequent as basic vocabulary)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of noun declensions and technical terminology, suitable for upper-intermediate learners)

Pronunciation (Russian):

механизм: [mʲɪxɐˈnʲizm]

Note on механизм: The stress is on the third syllable ('nʲizm'). Palatalized consonants like 'mʲ' can be challenging for English speakers; practice the soft 'm' sound as in "measure."

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: A system of parts working together in a machine or device

Translation(s) & Context:

• механизм - Used in technical or mechanical contexts, such as describing engine parts or devices (Formal, Scientific).

Usage Examples:

• Этот механизм обеспечивает плавное функционирование машины. (This mechanism ensures the smooth operation of the machine.)

  English Translation: This mechanism ensures the smooth operation of the machine.

• В часах есть сложный механизм, который отмеряет время. (In the watch, there is a complex mechanism that measures time.)

  English Translation: In the watch, there is a complex mechanism that measures time.

• Инженеры разрабатывают новый механизм для повышения эффективности. (Engineers are developing a new mechanism to increase efficiency.)

  English Translation: Engineers are developing a new mechanism to increase efficiency.

• Сломанный механизм в двери не позволяет её открыть. (The broken mechanism in the door doesn't allow it to open.)

  English Translation: The broken mechanism in the door doesn't allow it to open.

Meaning 2: A process or system by which something happens or is done

Translation(s) & Context:

• механизм - Used metaphorically in social, political, or psychological contexts (Formal, Abstract).

Usage Examples:

• Механизм демократии включает выборы и представительство. (The mechanism of democracy includes elections and representation.)

  English Translation: The mechanism of democracy includes elections and representation.

• Психологический механизм защиты помогает справляться со стрессом. (The psychological mechanism of defense helps in coping with stress.)

  English Translation: The psychological mechanism of defense helps in coping with stress.

• В экономике механизм рынка регулирует цены. (In economics, the market mechanism regulates prices.)

  English Translation: In economics, the market mechanism regulates prices.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Механизм is a masculine noun in Russian, and it follows the standard third-declension pattern for nouns ending in a consonant. It is a regular noun with predictable inflections based on case and number.

Note: As a masculine noun, it does not have gender-specific variations, but always adjust for case in sentences (e.g., "в механизме" for "in the mechanism").

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • устройство (device; more general, often interchangeable in mechanical contexts)
  • система (system; used when emphasizing interconnected parts)
• Antonyms:
  • хаос (chaos; implies disorder as opposed to structured mechanism)
  • неисправность (malfunction; opposite in the context of functionality)

Related Phrases:

• Сложный механизм (Complex mechanism) - Refers to an intricate system or device in technical discussions.
• Механизм работы (Mechanism of operation) - Describes how something functions, often in scientific explanations.
• Защитный механизм (Defensive mechanism) - Used in psychology for coping strategies.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "механизм" directly corresponds to the English "mechanism" in both literal and metaphorical senses, but it is more commonly used in formal or technical writing. English speakers should note that Russian nouns require case agreement, so always check the context (e.g., use genitive for possession: "механизма автомобиля"). If multiple translations exist, choose "механизм" for precise mechanical connotations, but "система" for broader systemic ideas. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler terms might suffice.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "в механизм" instead of "в механизме" (correct: in the mechanism).

  Correct Usage: В механизме есть проблема. (There is a problem in the mechanism.) Explanation: Russian requires the prepositional case for locations, so "механизме" is necessary.

• Error: Confusing with similar words, e.g., using "механика" (mechanics as a field) instead of "механизм".

  Correct Usage: Это не механика, а конкретный механизм. (This is not mechanics, but a specific mechanism.) Explanation: "Механика" refers to the science, while "механизм" is the object or process.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and language, "механизм" often appears in discussions of Soviet-era engineering and innovation, reflecting historical emphasis on industrial and technological advancements. For instance, it evokes images of complex machinery from Russia's industrial past, adding a layer of historical connotation in modern usage.

Related Concepts:

• система
• устройство
• процесс