Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'periphrasis'

English Word: periphrasis

Key Russian Translations:

• Перифраза [pʲɪrʲɪˈfraza] - [Formal, Literary]

Frequency: Medium (Common in linguistic, literary, and academic contexts, but less frequent in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; requires understanding of rhetorical devices and basic Russian noun declensions)

Pronunciation (Russian):

Перифраза: [pʲɪrʲɪˈfraza]

Note on Перифраза: The stress falls on the third syllable ("fraza"). The initial "п" is palatalized, which can be challenging for English speakers; it sounds similar to "p" in "pure".

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The use of indirect or roundabout expressions to convey meaning

Translation(s) & Context:

• Перифраза - Used in formal writing or speech to avoid directness, often in literature or rhetoric (e.g., in academic discussions or poetic contexts).

Usage Examples:

• В литературе перифраза используется для создания более поэтического эффекта, избегая прямых слов.

  In literature, periphrasis is used to create a more poetic effect, avoiding direct words.

• Оратор применил перифразу, чтобы мягко намекнуть на проблему, не называя её напрямую.

  The speaker employed periphrasis to gently hint at the issue without naming it directly.

• В повседневной речи перифраза может сделать высказывание более вежливым, например, "тот, кто управляет страной" вместо "президент".

  In everyday speech, periphrasis can make a statement more polite, for example, "the one who governs the country" instead of "president".

• Писатель мастерски использовал перифразу в описании природы, чтобы усилить эмоциональное воздействие.

  The writer skillfully used periphrasis in describing nature to enhance the emotional impact.

• В юридических текстах перифраза помогает обходить прямые обвинения, используя косвенные формулировки.

  In legal texts, periphrasis helps to circumvent direct accusations by using indirect formulations.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Перифраза" is a feminine noun (feminine singular) in Russian, following the first declension pattern. It has regular inflections based on standard Russian grammar rules. Below is a table of its declensions:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners once basic declensions are mastered.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Октябрь (less common, implies a circular or evasive description)
  • Круговой оборот (used in rhetorical contexts, emphasizing circularity)

  Brief note: "Октябрь" is more archaic and poetic, while "Круговой оборот" highlights the structural aspect in modern usage.

• Antonyms:
  • Прямое выражение (direct expression)
  • Конкретность (specificity)

Related Phrases:

• Использовать перифразу в речи - To use periphrasis in speech (common in formal oratory to soften statements).
• Перифраза как стилистический приём - Periphrasis as a stylistic device (often in literary analysis).
• Избегать прямой перифразы - To avoid direct periphrasis (implies opting for straightforward language in professional settings).

Usage Notes:

"Перифраза" directly corresponds to the English "periphrasis" in linguistic and rhetorical contexts, but it's more commonly used in formal or academic Russian rather than casual conversation. English learners should note that it often appears in written forms like essays or literature. When choosing between synonyms, opt for "Перифраза" in precise discussions of rhetoric, as it's the most direct borrowing. Be mindful of grammatical agreement: always decline it according to the sentence's case, e.g., "в перифразе" for "in periphrasis".

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "Перифраза" without proper declension, e.g., saying "Я люблю Перифраза" instead of "Я люблю перифразу".

  Correct: "Я люблю перифразу" (Accusative case). Explanation: Russian nouns must agree in case with their role in the sentence; this mistake often stems from treating it as an unchangeable English loanword.

• Error: Confusing it with "парафраза" (paraphrase), which means rephrasing content differently.

  Correct: Use "Перифраза" for roundabout expressions. Explanation: These are distinct concepts; mixing them can lead to misunderstandings in literary analysis.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "Перифраза" is often associated with classical literature and Soviet-era rhetoric, where indirect language was used to navigate censorship or social sensitivities. For instance, in 19th-century Russian novels like those by Tolstoy, periphrasis adds layers of meaning, reflecting the value placed on subtlety in communication.

Related Concepts:

• Метафора (metaphor)
• Символизм (symbolism)
• Аллегория (allegory)