Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'mutuality'

English Word: mutuality

Key Russian Translations:

• взаимность (/vzɐˈimnəsʲtʲ/) - [Formal]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in formal discussions, legal contexts, and academic writing, but not in everyday casual speech)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate, as it involves understanding abstract concepts and noun declensions, suitable for learners with a solid grasp of Russian grammar)

Pronunciation (Russian):

взаимность: /vzɐˈimnəsʲtʲ/

Note on взаимность: The stress falls on the third syllable ("im"), and the final "ть" sound is palatalized, which can be tricky for non-native speakers. Pronounce it with a soft "sʲ" at the end.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: The state of being mutual or reciprocal, referring to shared or interdependent relationships.

Translation(s) & Context:

• взаимность - Used in formal contexts to describe mutual agreements, relationships, or benefits, such as in business or social interactions.

Usage Examples:

• В отношениях важно поддерживать взаимность, чтобы оба партнера чувствовали себя равными.

  In relationships, it's important to maintain mutuality so that both partners feel equal.

• Взаимность в торговых сделках помогает укреплять международные связи.

  Mutuality in trade deals helps strengthen international ties.

• Без взаимности любая помощь может быть воспринята как односторонняя.

  Without mutuality, any help might be perceived as one-sided.

• Взаимность интересов между странами способствует глобальному миру.

  The mutuality of interests between countries promotes global peace.

• В образовательных программах подчеркивается взаимность знаний и опыта.

  In educational programs, the mutuality of knowledge and experience is emphasized.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"взаимность" is a feminine noun in the third declension. It follows standard patterns for Russian nouns, with changes based on case and number. Below is a table of its declensions:

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

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • взаимодействие (vzaimodeystvie) - More focused on interaction or cooperation.
  • обоюдность (oboyudnost') - Emphasizes two-sidedness, often in agreements.
• Antonyms:
  • односторонность (odnostoronost') - Unilateral or one-sided nature.
  • независимость (nezavisimost') - Independence, lacking mutual dependence.

Related Phrases:

• Взаимность интересов - Mutuality of interests; often used in diplomatic or business contexts to describe shared goals.
• Поддерживать взаимность - To maintain mutuality; refers to sustaining reciprocal relationships in personal or professional settings.
• На основе взаимности - On the basis of mutuality; a phrase used in legal or contractual agreements to ensure fairness.

Usage Notes:

"Взаимность" directly corresponds to the English concept of mutuality, emphasizing reciprocity in relationships or actions. It is typically used in formal or written Russian, such as in essays, contracts, or discussions about ethics and cooperation. Be cautious with its declensions based on sentence structure; for example, use the genitive case after prepositions like "без" (without). When choosing between synonyms like "взаимность" and "обоюдность," opt for "взаимность" in broader contexts and "обоюдность" for strictly two-party scenarios.

Common Errors:

• Confusing declensions: Learners often misuse the genitive form, e.g., saying "без взаимность" instead of the correct "без взаимности." Error: "без взаимность" (incorrect accusative use). Correct: "без взаимности" (genitive). This happens because English doesn't have cases, so remember to adjust based on Russian grammar rules.

• Overgeneralizing synonyms: Mistaking "взаимность" for "взаимодействие" in non-interactive contexts. Error: Using "взаимодействие" to mean pure mutuality in a relationship. Correct: Use "взаимность" for reciprocity without implying action. Explanation: "Взаимодействие" implies active engagement, while "взаимность" is more about the state.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "взаимность" often underscores the value of reciprocity in social and professional interactions, reflecting historical influences like communal living in Soviet times. It highlights the importance of mutual support in relationships, which can be seen in traditional customs such as gift-giving or community events, where one-sided actions are viewed as unbalanced.

Related Concepts:

• взаимопомощь (mutual aid)
• сотрудничество (cooperation)
• равенство (equality)