Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'modernist'

English Word: modernist

Key Russian Translations:

• модернист [mədɐˈrnʲist] - [Formal, used in contexts like art, literature, or philosophy]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in discussions of art, culture, and intellectual movements, but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of Russian noun declensions and cultural contexts, suitable for learners with a solid grasp of vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

модернист: [mədɐˈrnʲist]

Note on модернист: The stress falls on the third syllable ("rnʲist"), which can be tricky for English speakers due to the soft 'н' sound. Pronunciation may vary slightly in fast speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

As a noun: A person who supports or practices modernism, especially in art, architecture, or literature.

Translation(s) & Context:

• модернист - Used in formal or academic discussions, such as describing artists or thinkers who embrace modern ideas (e.g., in 20th-century Russian art movements).

Usage Examples:

• В 1920-х годах многие художники были модернистами, экспериментируя с новыми формами и цветами.

  In the 1920s, many artists were modernists, experimenting with new forms and colors.

• Этот писатель считается одним из ведущих модернистов своего времени, так как он отражал урбанистические изменения в своих произведениях.

  This writer is considered one of the leading modernists of his time, as he reflected urban changes in his works.

• Модернисты часто критиковали традиционное искусство, предпочитая абстрактные стили.

  Modernists often criticized traditional art, preferring abstract styles.

• В современном мире модернист может быть архитектором, создающим здания с минималистичным дизайном.

  In the modern world, a modernist can be an architect creating buildings with minimalist design.

• Критики называют его модернистом за использование инновационных техник в поэзии.

  Critics call him a modernist for using innovative techniques in poetry.

As an adjective (informal extension): Relating to modernist principles.

Translation(s) & Context:

• модернистский - Less common, used in specialized contexts like art criticism, but can be replaced with "современный" in broader discussions.

Usage Examples:

• Его модернистский подход к живописи вдохновил целое поколение художников.

  His modernist approach to painting inspired an entire generation of artists.

• В музее представлена коллекция модернистских произведений, отражающих эволюцию искусства.

  The museum features a collection of modernist works, reflecting the evolution of art.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

модернист is a masculine noun in Russian, following the standard second-declension pattern for most masculine nouns ending in a consonant. It is inflected based on case, number, and gender agreements. Below is a table of its basic declensions:

Note: This word does not have irregular inflections, making it relatively straightforward for learners. For the adjective form "модернистский," it follows standard adjective declensions based on gender, number, and case.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • авангардист (avant-gardist) - Often used interchangeably in artistic contexts, but implies more experimental elements.
  • современник (contemporary) - Broader term, with less emphasis on modernism specifically.
• Antonyms:
  • традиционалист (traditionalist) - Refers to someone who adheres to classical styles.
  • классик (classicist) - Implies adherence to established, non-modern traditions.

Related Phrases:

• модернистское искусство - Modernist art; a common phrase in cultural discussions, referring to 20th-century movements like Suprematism.
• модернистский стиль - Modernist style; used in architecture or design to describe minimalist and functional aesthetics.
• быть модернистом - To be a modernist; an idiomatic expression meaning to adopt progressive ideas in creative fields.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "модернист" directly corresponds to the English "modernist" in noun form, particularly in intellectual or artistic contexts. It is most appropriate in formal writing or discussions, such as literature reviews or art history. Be cautious with word choice: if the context is more general (e.g., everyday modernity), "современный" might be a better fit. Grammatically, ensure proper declension based on sentence structure, as Russian requires case agreement. When choosing between translations, use "модернист" for specific historical movements and "модернистский" for adjectival descriptions.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "модернист" with "современный": Learners often misuse "модернист" when they mean "modern" in a general sense. Incorrect: "Он современный художник" (meant as modernist). Correct: "Он модернист" for someone specifically in the modernist movement. Explanation: "Современный" means "modern" or "current," while "модернист" implies a philosophical or stylistic affiliation.

• Forgetting declensions: A common mistake is using the nominative form in all cases, e.g., saying "о модернист" instead of "о модернисте" in prepositional case. Correct usage: "Мы говорим о модернисте" (We are talking about the modernist). Explanation: Always adjust for case to maintain grammatical accuracy in Russian sentences.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "модернист" is often linked to early 20th-century movements like Russian Futurism or Constructivism, influenced by figures such as Kazimir Malevich. These terms carry historical weight, reflecting Russia's rapid modernization post-Revolution, and can evoke national pride or critique of traditional values. Understanding this context helps English speakers appreciate how modernism in Russia diverged from Western counterparts, emphasizing social and political themes.

Related Concepts:

• авангард (avant-garde)
• супрематизм (Suprematism)
• конструктивизм (Constructivism)