Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'metamorphosis'

English Word: metamorphosis

Key Russian Translations:

• метаморфоза /mʲɪtɐˈmorfəzə/ - [Formal, Literary, Scientific]

Frequency: Medium (This word is commonly encountered in scientific, literary, and educational contexts but not in everyday casual conversation.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires familiarity with borrowed words from Greek/Latin roots and basic noun inflections, suitable for upper-intermediate learners per CEFR standards.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

метаморфоза: /mʲɪtɐˈmorfəzə/

Note on метаморфоза: The stress falls on the third syllable ("mor"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the palatalized 'm' sound (/mʲ/). In fast speech, the final vowel may reduce slightly.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Biological or Physical Transformation (e.g., the process of an insect changing form)

Translation(s) & Context:

• метаморфоза - Used in scientific and biological contexts to describe complete changes, such as in entomology or geology.

Usage Examples:

• В процессе метаморфозы гусеница превращается в бабочку.

  In the process of metamorphosis, a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.

• Метаморфоза лягушачьих головастиков происходит в водной среде.

  The metamorphosis of tadpoles occurs in an aquatic environment.

• Учёные изучают метаморфозу как ключевой этап эволюции видов.

  Scientists study metamorphosis as a key stage in the evolution of species.

• Метаморфоза минералов под влиянием высоких температур удивительна.

  The metamorphosis of minerals under high temperatures is remarkable.

Figurative or Personal Change (e.g., a profound transformation in character or circumstances)

Translation(s) & Context:

• метаморфоза - Applied in literary, psychological, or metaphorical contexts to denote radical personal or societal changes.

Usage Examples:

• Его переезд в новую страну стал настоящей метаморфозой в его жизни.

  His move to a new country became a real metamorphosis in his life.

• Метаморфоза персонажа в романе отражает внутренние конфликты автора.

  The metamorphosis of the character in the novel reflects the author's internal conflicts.

• Через годы терапии она пережила метаморфозу, став уверенной в себе.

  Through years of therapy, she underwent a metamorphosis, becoming self-confident.

• Политическая метаморфоза страны привела к радикальным реформам.

  The political metamorphosis of the country led to radical reforms.

• Метаморфоза его взглядов на мир произошла после путешествий.

  The metamorphosis of his worldview happened after his travels.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Метаморфоза" is a feminine noun (from Greek origin) and follows standard first-declension patterns in Russian. It has regular inflections based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners, but pay attention to the soft sign in genitive plural.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • преобразование (more general transformation, often used in everyday contexts; subtle difference: less emphasis on complete change)
  • трансформация (similar to English "transformation," used in modern, business, or tech contexts)
• Antonyms:
  • стабильность (stability; implies no change at all)
  • стагнация (stagnation; suggests lack of progress or development)

Related Phrases:

• Процесс метаморфозы - The process of metamorphosis; used in scientific descriptions of change.
• Личная метаморфоза - Personal metamorphosis; common in psychological or self-help contexts to describe self-improvement.
• Метаморфоза общества - Societal metamorphosis; refers to broad cultural or social transformations.

Usage Notes:

"Метаморфоза" directly corresponds to the English "metamorphosis" as a borrowed term, often retaining its original connotations in formal or academic settings. It is typically used in written Russian rather than spoken language due to its formality. When choosing between translations like "преобразование," opt for "метаморфоза" if the context involves complete, irreversible changes (e.g., biological processes). Be mindful of grammatical gender (feminine) and ensure correct case agreement in sentences. For English learners, this word is useful for discussing literature, such as Kafka's works, but avoid overusing it in casual conversations where simpler synonyms might be more appropriate.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing the word as /mɛtəˈmɔrfɔzə/ (influenced by English pronunciation). Correct: Use /mʲɪtɐˈmorfəzə/ with proper Russian stress and palatalization.

  Incorrect example: Говорить "метаморфоза" с английским акцентом. (Speaking "metamorphosis" with an English accent.)

  Correct example: Правильно произносить /mʲɪtɐˈmorfəzə/, как в: "Эта метаморфоза впечатляет." (This metamorphosis is impressive.)

• Error: Using it in informal contexts where a simpler word fits better, leading to overly complex language. Correct: Reserve for formal writing; e.g., don't say "моя ежедневная метаморфоза" for "my daily routine change"—use "изменение" instead.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "метаморфоза" often appears in literary contexts, such as in references to Franz Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" (translated as "Метаморфоза"), symbolizing existential transformation. This reflects broader Russian literary traditions that explore themes of change and identity, influenced by authors like Tolstoy or Dostoevsky, where personal metamorphosis signifies spiritual or moral evolution.

Related Concepts:

• эволюция (evolution)
• трансформация (transformation)
• адаптация (adaptation)