Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'oboe'

English Word: oboe

Key Russian Translations:

• гобой [ɡɐˈboj] - [Formal, Used in musical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common among music enthusiasts but less frequent in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, as it involves recognizing borrowed words and basic musical vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

гобой: [ɡɐˈboj]

Note on гобой: The stress falls on the second syllable; the 'г' is pronounced as a voiced velar fricative, which may be challenging for English speakers unfamiliar with Slavic phonetics.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The oboe is a woodwind instrument used in orchestras and ensembles.

Translation(s) & Context:

• гобой - Typically used in formal or artistic discussions about music, such as in concerts or educational settings.

Usage Examples:

• Он играет на гобое в симфоническом оркестре.

  He plays the oboe in the symphony orchestra.

• Гобой придаёт мелодии особый, проникновенный звук.

  The oboe gives the melody a special, penetrating sound.

• В русской фольклорной музыке гобой иногда заменяет традиционные инструменты.

  In Russian folk music, the oboe sometimes substitutes for traditional instruments.

• Молодой музыкант учит играть на гобое для предстоящего концерта.

  The young musician is learning to play the oboe for the upcoming concert.

• Гобой звучит особенно выразительно в сольных партиях опер.

  The oboe sounds particularly expressive in solo parts of operas.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Гобой" is a masculine noun in the second declension (second class of Russian nouns). It follows standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant, with regular inflections based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

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

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: None directly applicable, as "гобой" is a specific term for the oboe.
• Antonyms: None, as this is a concrete noun referring to an instrument and does not have opposites.

Related Phrases:

• Играть на гобое - To play the oboe; commonly used in contexts discussing musical performance.
• Звук гобоя - The sound of the oboe; refers to its distinctive tone in musical descriptions.
• Гобой в оркестре - The oboe in the orchestra; highlights its role in ensemble settings.

Usage Notes:

"Гобой" directly corresponds to the English "oboe" as a borrowed word from French via English, making it a precise translation in musical contexts. It is primarily used in formal or artistic language, such as in music education, concerts, or critiques. Be cautious with grammatical agreement: as a masculine noun, it must align with adjectives and verbs accordingly (e.g., "хороший гобой" for "good oboe"). When choosing between translations, "гобой" is the standard term; alternatives are rare unless specifying regional instruments.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "гобой" with "флейта" (flute) due to both being woodwind instruments. Incorrect: "Он играет на флейте, когда имелось в виду обой." Correct: "Он играет на гобое." Explanation: English learners often mix similar instruments; always verify the specific instrument in context to avoid miscommunication.

• Error: Incorrect inflection, such as using the nominative "гобой" in all cases. Incorrect: "Я слушал музыку с гобой" (should be genitive). Correct: "Я слушал музыку с гобоем." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement; practice declensions to master this.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the oboe (гобой) holds a prominent place in classical and folk music traditions. It is often featured in works by composers like Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky, symbolizing melancholy or pastoral themes. Historically, the instrument was introduced to Russia through Western influences in the 18th century, blending with indigenous music and reflecting Russia's rich musical heritage.

Related Concepts:

• флейта (flute)
• кларнет (clarinet)
• скрипка (violin)