Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'modernism'

English Word: modernism

Key Russian Translations:

• модернизм - /mɐˈdɛrnɪzm/ - [Formal, used in academic, artistic, or historical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in discussions of art, literature, and philosophy, but not in everyday casual conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Upper Intermediate; requires familiarity with Russian nominal declensions and cultural contexts, suitable for learners with a solid grasp of intermediate vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

модернизм: /mɐˈdɛrnɪzm/

Note on модернизм: The stress falls on the third syllable ('dɛrn'), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the softer Russian vowels. Pronounce the 'р' as a rolled or trilled 'r' for authenticity.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A cultural or artistic movement emphasizing innovation, experimentation, and rejection of traditional forms (e.g., in art, literature, or architecture).

Translation(s) & Context:

• модернизм - Used in formal discussions of 20th-century art movements, such as in academic papers or cultural critiques.

Usage Examples:

• В начале XX века модернизм радикально изменил искусство, отходя от реализма.

  In the early 20th century, modernism radically changed art, moving away from realism.

• Модернизм в литературе подразумевает эксперименты с формой и языком, как у Джойса.

  Modernism in literature implies experiments with form and language, as seen in Joyce's works.

• Архитектурный модернизм фокусируется на функциональности и минимализме, как в работах Ле Корбюзье.

  Architectural modernism focuses on functionality and minimalism, as in Le Corbusier's works.

• Критики часто ассоциируют модернизм с потерей традиционных ценностей в обществе.

  Critics often associate modernism with the loss of traditional values in society.

• В русском модернизме заметно влияние европейских идей, но с уникальными национальными элементами.

  In Russian modernism, there is a clear influence of European ideas, but with unique national elements.

2. A broader philosophical or social trend towards modernity and progress (e.g., in technology or society).

Translation(s) & Context:

• модернизм - Applied in contexts discussing social change or technological advancement, often in formal or academic settings.

Usage Examples:

• Модернизм в обществе привел к быстрому развитию технологий в XX веке.

  Modernism in society led to rapid technological development in the 20th century.

• Некоторые критики считают, что модернизм подрывает культурные традиции.

  Some critics believe that modernism undermines cultural traditions.

• Экономический модернизм требует инвестиций в инновации для роста.

  Economic modernism requires investments in innovation for growth.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

модернизм is a masculine noun (мужской род) in Russian, following the standard second declension pattern for nouns ending in -изм. It is relatively regular but can vary by case and number. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners, but always pay attention to the ending changes based on case.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • авангард (avant-garde; often used for more experimental aspects, with a focus on innovation in art)
  • новаторство (innovativeness; emphasizes novelty in a broader sense)
• Antonyms:
  • традиционализм (traditionalism; highlights adherence to established norms)
  • консерватизм (conservatism; implies resistance to change)

Related Phrases:

• Русский модернизм - Russian modernism; refers to the specific movement in Russian art and literature, often influenced by figures like Kandinsky.
• Кризис модернизма - Crisis of modernism; used in discussions about the decline or challenges faced by modernist ideas in society.
• Эпоха модернизма - Era of modernism; denotes the historical period associated with modernist developments.

Usage Notes:

модернизм directly corresponds to the English "modernism" in contexts like art and philosophy, but in Russian, it often carries a more formal, academic tone. English speakers should note that it's typically used in written or educated speech rather than casual conversation. When choosing between translations, stick with модернизм for precision, as other synonyms like авангард might imply a narrower, more revolutionary focus. Grammatically, ensure correct declension based on sentence structure; for example, use the genitive case after prepositions like "в" (in) as in "в модернизме" (in modernism).

Common Errors:

• Error: Misdeclining the noun, e.g., saying "в модернизм" instead of "в модернизме" (correct genitive form after "в").

  Correct Usage: в модернизме; Explanation: In Russian, prepositional phrases require the prepositional case, so always adjust the ending accordingly to avoid sounding unnatural.

• Error: Confusing модернизм with авангард, using them interchangeably without context.

  Correct Usage: Use модернизм for broader movements and авангард for specifically experimental subsets; Explanation: This can lead to imprecise communication, as авангард implies a more radical break from tradition.

• Error: Pronouncing it as /moʊˈdɜːrnɪzəm/ (with English influences).

  Correct Usage: /mɐˈdɛrnɪzm/; Explanation: English speakers often anglicize the pronunciation, but in Russian, the vowels are shorter and the stress is fixed, so practice with native audio to master it.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, модернизм is closely tied to the early 20th-century avant-garde movements, such as those led by artists like Kazimir Malevich and writers like Vladimir Mayakovsky. It represents a break from tsarist-era traditions and symbolizes Russia's rapid modernization during the Soviet period, often evoking themes of innovation amid social upheaval. Understanding this historical context can deepen appreciation for how the term is used in contemporary Russian discourse.

Related Concepts:

• постмодернизм (postmodernism)
• авангард (avant-garde)
• символизм (symbolism)