Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'mirror'

English Word: mirror

Key Russian Translations:

• зеркало [zʲɪrˈkalə] - [Neutral, Singular, Common noun used in everyday contexts]

Frequency: High (This word is commonly used in daily Russian conversations and written media.)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner level, as it involves basic vocabulary and simple noun forms in Russian.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

зеркало: [zʲɪrˈkalə]

Note on зеркало: The stress falls on the second syllable ("kal"). The initial "з" is a voiced alveolar fricative, which may be challenging for English speakers used to "z" sounds. Pronunciation can vary slightly in fast speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A reflective surface, typically made of glass, used for seeing one's reflection.

Translation(s) & Context:

• зеркало - Used in general contexts for everyday objects like bathroom mirrors or handheld mirrors; suitable for formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• Посмотри в зеркало, чтобы поправить волосы.

  Look in the mirror to fix your hair.

• Это старинное зеркало стоит в гостиной.

  This antique mirror is in the living room.

• В зеркале отразилось всё помещение.

  The entire room was reflected in the mirror.

• Она разбила зеркало и семь лет неудач предсказала.

  She broke the mirror and predicted seven years of bad luck. (Shows idiomatic or superstitious use)

• Зеркало в машине помогает водителю видеть слепые зоны.

  The mirror in the car helps the driver see blind spots.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Зеркало" is a neuter noun in Russian, belonging to the second declension. It follows regular patterns for most cases but has specific changes for number and case. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: This noun does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for beginners, but always pay attention to case endings in sentences.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • отражение (otrazheniye) - More abstract, meaning "reflection" in a figurative sense.
  • линза (linza) - Used specifically for optical mirrors, with a slight technical connotation.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "зеркало" is a physical object. However, conceptually, it could contrast with "темнота" (darkness) in poetic contexts.

Related Phrases:

• магическое зеркало - Magical mirror; often used in fairy tales or fantasy contexts.
• зеркало заднего вида - Rearview mirror; common in automotive discussions.
• разбить зеркало - To break a mirror; associated with superstitions about bad luck.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "зеркало" directly corresponds to the English "mirror" as a noun and is used in similar contexts. It is gender-neutral (neuter) and versatile across formal and informal settings. When using it, ensure the correct case based on the sentence structure—e.g., in prepositional phrases like "в зеркале" (in the mirror). If multiple translations exist, choose "зеркало" for literal meanings; for abstract reflections, opt for "отражение". Avoid overusing it in idiomatic expressions without context, as Russian has specific superstitions around mirrors.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the nominative form "зеркало" in all cases, e.g., saying "в зеркало" instead of the correct genitive or prepositional form.

  Correct: "Посмотри в зеркало" (correct for accusative context). Incorrect: "Я имею зеркало" (should be "Я имею зеркало" if nominative, but in other cases, adjust accordingly).

  Explanation: Russian requires case agreement; English speakers often forget this, leading to grammatical errors.

• Error: Confusing it with "отражение", using "зеркало" for abstract meanings.

  Correct: Use "отражение" for "reflection" in a non-physical sense, e.g., "душевное отражение".

  Explanation: This can make sentences sound unnatural; always consider the context to differentiate literal vs. figurative uses.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, mirrors hold superstitious significance. For instance, breaking a mirror is believed to bring seven years of bad luck, stemming from folklore and Orthodox traditions. Mirrors are also prominent in literature, like in fairy tales by Pushkin, symbolizing self-reflection or vanity, which adds a layer of depth beyond their practical use.

Related Concepts:

• отражение (reflection)
• стекло (glass)
• иллюзия (illusion)