Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'musk'

English Word: musk

Key Russian Translations:

• мускус [mʊsˈkus] - [Formal; used in scientific, perfumery, or general contexts]

Frequency: Low (The word is not commonly used in everyday Russian conversation but appears in specialized contexts like biology, chemistry, or fragrance discussions.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1; Learners should be familiar with basic noun declensions and vocabulary related to nature or science.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

мускус: [mʊsˈkus]

Note on мускус: The stress is on the second syllable ("kus"). Be careful with the "у" sound, which is a short "u" like in "book," and avoid over-emphasizing the final "s." Pronunciation can vary slightly in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A substance secreted by certain animals, used in perfumery (e.g., from the musk deer).

Translation(s) & Context:

• мускус - Used in formal or technical contexts, such as describing fragrances or animal biology. It refers specifically to the odorous secretion.

Usage Examples:

• В парфюмерии мускус используется для создания стойких ароматов.

  In perfumery, musk is used to create long-lasting scents.

• Мускус добывают из желез некоторых животных, таких как мускусный олень.

  Musk is extracted from the glands of certain animals, such as the musk deer.

• Современные синтетические аналоги мускуса часто заменяют натуральный в косметике.

  Modern synthetic analogs of musk often replace the natural substance in cosmetics.

• В исторических текстах мускус упоминается как ценный ингредиент в восточных благовониях.

  In historical texts, musk is mentioned as a valuable ingredient in Eastern incense.

• Аллергические реакции на мускус встречаются редко, но возможны у чувствительных людей.

  Allergic reactions to musk are rare but possible in sensitive individuals.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Мускус" is a masculine noun (мужской род) in Russian, belonging to the second declension. It follows regular patterns for most cases but has no irregularities. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: The plural form is less common, as "мускус" typically refers to the substance in singular contexts.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Муск (a less formal or archaic variant, implying the same substance)
  • Амбра (used in contexts where musk is compared to ambergris, with a subtle difference in scent profile)
• Antonyms:
  • Без запаха (literally "odorless," as an opposite concept, though not a direct antonym)

Related Phrases:

• Мускусный олень - Refers to the musk deer, the animal source of musk.
• Синтетический мускус - Synthetic musk, commonly used in modern products.
• Аромат мускуса - The scent of musk, often in perfumery contexts.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "мускус" directly corresponds to the English "musk" as a noun for the animal secretion or its synthetic equivalent. It is typically used in formal, scientific, or specialized language rather than casual conversation. When translating, ensure the context is clear—e.g., in perfumery vs. biology. For learners, note that Russian nouns require gender agreement in adjectives and verbs; pair "мускус" with masculine forms. If multiple translations exist, choose "мускус" for precision over more poetic variants like "амбра."

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "мускус" with "муск" and using it interchangeably. Incorrect: "Муск в парфюме" (implies a different or outdated term). Correct: "Мускус в парфюме." Explanation: "Муск" is an archaic form and may not be understood in modern contexts, leading to confusion.

• Error: Forgetting declension in sentences, e.g., using nominative in all cases. Incorrect: "Я думаю о мускус" (should be genitive). Correct: "Я думаю о мускусе." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, so always adjust based on the sentence structure.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, musk has historical significance in traditional perfumery and medicine, often linked to Eastern influences via the Silk Road. It symbolizes luxury and rarity, appearing in literature like 19th-century Russian novels where it's associated with exotic imports. However, due to animal welfare concerns, synthetic alternatives are now preferred, reflecting modern ethical shifts in society.

Related Concepts:

• Парфюм (perfume)
• Аромат (aroma)
• Мускусный олень (musk deer)