Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'modesty'

English Word: modesty

Key Russian Translations:

• скромность [ˈskrom.nəsʲtʲ] - [Formal; used in general contexts to denote humility or restraint]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in everyday Russian conversations, literature, and media, but not as ubiquitous as basic vocabulary)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; requires understanding of noun declensions and abstract concepts, suitable for learners with a basic grasp of Russian grammar)

Pronunciation (Russian):

скромность: [ˈskrom.nəsʲtʲ]

Note on скромность: The stress falls on the first syllable. The 'о' is pronounced as a short 'o' sound, and the final 'ть' is a soft 't' sound, which can be challenging for English speakers due to Russian's palatalization. Pay attention to the soft sign 'ь' affecting the preceding consonant.

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Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: The quality of being humble or not boastful

Translation(s) & Context:

• скромность - Used in formal or reflective contexts, such as discussing personal traits or societal values.

Usage Examples:

• Её скромность всегда впечатляет окружающих.

  Her modesty always impresses those around her.

• В русской культуре скромность считается добродетелью.

  In Russian culture, modesty is considered a virtue.

• Он проявил скромность, отказавшись от публичных похвал.

  He showed modesty by declining public praise.

• Скромность помогает в построении крепких отношений.

  Modesty helps in building strong relationships.

Meaning 2: Moderate or unassuming behavior, often in appearance or actions

Translation(s) & Context:

• скромность - Applied in contexts involving simplicity or restraint, such as in fashion or lifestyle choices.

Usage Examples:

• Её одежда отражает скромность и элегантность.

  Her clothing reflects modesty and elegance.

• Скромность в интерьере делает дом уютным.

  Modesty in interior design makes the home cozy.

• Он выбрал скромность вместо роскоши для своей свадьбы.

  He chose modesty over luxury for his wedding.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Скромность" is a feminine noun (3rd declension in Russian). It follows regular noun declension patterns, changing based on case, number, and gender. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners once basic declension rules are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • смиренность (smirenmost') - Implies a more religious or submissive form of humility.
  • непритязательность (nepritjazatel'nost') - Suggests simplicity and lack of pretension, often in material contexts.
• Antonyms:
  • гордость (proudness) - Directly opposes modesty with connotations of arrogance.
  • высокомерие (vysokomerie) - Implies haughtiness or conceit.

Related Phrases:

• Скромность украшает человека - (Modesty adorns a person; a common proverb emphasizing the value of humility in social interactions.)
• Жить в скромности - (To live in modesty; refers to a simple, unpretentious lifestyle.)
• Скромность превыше всего - (Modesty above all; used to prioritize humble behavior in decision-making.)

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "скромность" directly corresponds to the English "modesty" in its abstract sense but often carries a positive cultural connotation, unlike in English where it can sometimes imply shyness. It is commonly used in formal writing, speeches, or educational contexts. When choosing between synonyms like "смиренность," opt for "скромность" in everyday situations to avoid overly religious undertones. Grammatically, always ensure it agrees in case with surrounding words, such as in prepositional phrases (e.g., "о скромности" for "about modesty").

Common Errors:

• English learners often confuse "скромность" with "стыдливость" (shyness), leading to incorrect usage. For example, a learner might say: "Его стыдливость помешала ему говорить" (incorrectly implying shyness instead of modesty). Correct usage: "Его скромность не позволила ему хвастаться" (His modesty did not allow him to boast). Explanation: "Скромность" focuses on restraint in self-praise, not social awkwardness.

• Another error is improper declension, such as using the nominative form in all cases: "Я думаю о скромность" (wrong; should be "о скромности"). Correct: "Я думаю о скромности." This stems from not applying Russian case rules.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "скромность" is highly valued and often linked to traditional values from literature like Tolstoy's works, where it represents moral integrity. It contrasts with Western individualism, emphasizing collective humility in social and family settings. This cultural nuance can help English speakers understand why Russians might praise modesty in professional or personal contexts.

Related Concepts:

• достоинство (dignity)
• вежливость (politeness)
• самообладание (self-control)