Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'nappy'

English Word: nappy

Key Russian Translations:

• подгузник [pɐdˈɡu znʲɪk] - [Informal, Everyday use for baby care]

Frequency: Medium (Common in family and childcare contexts, but not in general conversation)

Difficulty: A2 (Basic level, suitable for beginners learning everyday vocabulary related to daily life)

Pronunciation (Russian):

подгузник: [pɐdˈɡu znʲɪk]

Note on подгузник: The stress falls on the second syllable ("gu"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the soft consonant sounds in Russian. Pronounce the "зн" as a soft "zn" sound.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: A diaper or absorbent garment for babies to manage urination and bowel movements.

Translation(s) & Context:

• подгузник - Used in casual, everyday contexts for referring to disposable or reusable baby diapers in Russian-speaking households.

Usage Examples:

• Мама купила новый подгузник для малыша, чтобы он был сухим всю ночь.

  Mom bought a new nappy for the baby so he would stay dry all night.

• Подгузник с индикатором влажности очень удобен для молодых родителей.

  A nappy with a wetness indicator is very convenient for young parents.

• В магазине есть разные размеры подгузников для детей разного возраста.

  In the store, there are various sizes of nappies for children of different ages.

• После прогулки, проверьте, не пора ли сменить подгузник.

  After the walk, check if it's time to change the nappy.

• Подгузник может быть одноразовым или многоразовым, в зависимости от предпочтений семьи.

  A nappy can be disposable or reusable, depending on the family's preferences.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Подгузник" is a masculine noun in the second declension. It follows regular noun inflection patterns in Russian, which means it changes based on case, number, and gender agreement. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners. Always ensure agreement with adjectives and verbs in sentences.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • памперс - Often used interchangeably, especially for branded disposable diapers; slightly more informal and brand-specific.
  • подкладной - Less common, refers to reusable or cloth versions in specific contexts.
• Antonyms: Not typically applicable, as this is a concrete noun without direct opposites.

Related Phrases:

• Сменный подгузник - Refers to a disposable nappy; used in contexts of quick changes during travel or daily routines.
• Подгузник для плавания - A swim nappy; common in family outings or beach activities.
• Многоразовый подгузник - Reusable nappy; often discussed in eco-friendly parenting contexts.

Usage Notes:

"Подгузник" directly corresponds to "nappy" in British English or "diaper" in American English, focusing on baby care products. It is primarily used in informal, domestic settings and is neutral in terms of formality. When choosing between translations like "памперс," opt for "подгузник" in general contexts to avoid brand associations. Be mindful of grammatical agreement in Russian sentences, as it must align with case and number (e.g., "в подгузнике" for "in the nappy"). This word is versatile but most common in spoken language among parents or caregivers.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "подгузник" with "полотенце" (towel) due to similar contexts in bathing routines. Incorrect: "Используйте полотенце для малыша" when meaning a nappy. Correct: "Используйте подгузник для малыша." Explanation: "Полотенце" is for drying, not absorption, so always specify the right item to avoid misunderstandings in childcare.

• Error: Forgetting case changes, e.g., using nominative "подгузник" in genitive contexts. Incorrect: "Купить подгузник" (in a sentence requiring genitive). Correct: "Купить подгузника." Explanation: Russian requires precise case agreement; practice declensions to build accuracy.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "подгузник" is a staple in modern parenting, especially with the influence of Western brands like Pampers. It reflects contemporary family life in urban areas, where disposable options are preferred for convenience. Historically, reusable cloth versions were more common, symbolizing resourcefulness in Soviet-era households, which adds a layer of cultural evolution to the term.

Related Concepts:

• пеленка (cloth diaper or blanket)
• детские товары (baby products)
• кормилка (baby bottle or feeding-related items)