Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'momentum'

English Word: momentum

Key Russian Translations:

• импульс [ɪmˈpʊls] - [Formal, Scientific]

Frequency: Medium (Common in scientific, technical, and educational contexts, but less frequent in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of physics or metaphorical language, as per CEFR standards)

Pronunciation (Russian):

импульс: [ɪmˈpʊls]

Note on импульс: The stress falls on the second syllable. Be mindful of the soft sign (ь) at the end, which affects pronunciation subtly in rapid speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. Physics: The product of the mass and velocity of an object, representing its quantity of motion.

Translation(s) & Context:

• импульс - Used in scientific and technical contexts to describe physical momentum, such as in mechanics or engineering.

Usage Examples:

• В физике импульс объекта зависит от его массы и скорости.

  In physics, the momentum of an object depends on its mass and velocity.

• Расчёт импульса необходим для понимания столкновений в механике.

  Calculating momentum is essential for understanding collisions in mechanics.

• Импульс ракеты позволяет ей преодолевать гравитацию.

  The momentum of the rocket allows it to overcome gravity.

• Изменение импульса приводит к ускорению тела.

  A change in momentum leads to the acceleration of a body.

2. Figurative: The impetus or driving force that keeps something moving forward, such as in business or personal development.

Translation(s) & Context:

• импульс - Used metaphorically to indicate momentum in non-physical contexts, like maintaining progress in a project.

Usage Examples:

• Компания набрала импульс после успешного запуска продукта.

  The company gained momentum after the successful product launch.

• Чтобы сохранить импульс, нужно регулярно ставить новые цели.

  To maintain momentum, you need to set new goals regularly.

• Импульс реформ помог стране выйти из кризиса.

  The momentum of reforms helped the country emerge from the crisis.

• Без импульса мотивации проект может остановиться.

  Without the momentum of motivation, the project might stall.

• Импульс энтузиазма распространился среди команды.

  The momentum of enthusiasm spread throughout the team.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Импульс" is a masculine noun (мужской род) in Russian, belonging to the third declension. It follows standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The word does not have irregular inflections, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • импульс - (basic equivalent)
  • энергия (energy) - Used when emphasizing force or vitality; subtle difference in implying sustained power.
  • разгон (acceleration) - In figurative contexts, for building speed.
• Antonyms:
  • стоп (stop) - Indicates complete halt.
  • инерция (inertia) - Sometimes contrasted, though it can relate; implies resistance to change.

Related Phrases:

• Сохранить импульс - To maintain momentum; used in contexts like project management or personal motivation.
• Набрать импульс - To gain momentum; common in business or sports to describe building speed.
• Импульс движения - Momentum of motion; a phrase in physics for dynamic systems.

Usage Notes:

"Импульс" directly corresponds to "momentum" in English, especially in scientific fields, but it can also be used metaphorically. In formal contexts, stick to its precise meaning to avoid confusion. For English speakers, note that Russian requires careful attention to case endings; for example, use the genitive "импульса" after prepositions like "без" (without). When choosing between translations, opt for "импульс" in technical discussions and "разгон" for informal, everyday momentum. Be aware of context: in Russian, this word often appears in written or academic language rather than casual speech.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "импульс" interchangeably with "энергия" without context. Incorrect: "Импульс - это энергия тела." (This equates momentum with energy, which is imprecise.)

  Correct: "Импульс зависит от массы и скорости, в отличие от энергии." (Momentum depends on mass and velocity, unlike energy.)

  Explanation: Learners often confuse the two due to overlapping connotations; clarify that "импульс" specifically involves motion quantity, not general power.

• Error: Incorrect inflection, e.g., using nominative in all cases. Incorrect: "Я думаю об импульс" (should be dative for "about").

  Correct: "Я думаю об импульсе."

  Explanation: Russian nouns change based on case; always check the governing preposition or verb.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and education, "импульс" is heavily featured in STEM fields due to Russia's strong tradition in physics and space exploration (e.g., contributions from scientists like Tsiolkovsky). It symbolizes progress and innovation, often appearing in discussions about national achievements, reflecting a cultural emphasis on scientific advancement.

Related Concepts:

• сила (force)
• ускорение (acceleration)
• энергия (energy)