Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'pillow'

English Word: pillow

Key Russian Translations:

• подушка [IPA: pə'duʃkə] - [Formal, Everyday use]

Frequency: High (Commonly used in daily conversations and contexts related to home and sleep)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner; Straightforward noun with basic inflection patterns, suitable for new learners of Russian)

Pronunciation (Russian):

подушка: pə'duʃkə

Note on подушка: The stress falls on the second syllable ('duʃ'). Be mindful of the soft 'ш' sound, which is a common challenge for English speakers. Pronunciation may vary slightly in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: A soft cushion or pillow used for supporting the head while sleeping or resting.

Translation(s) & Context:

• подушка - Used in everyday contexts for a standard bed pillow, applicable in formal and informal settings, such as describing bedroom items.

Usage Examples:

• Я кладу голову на подушку каждый вечер перед сном.

  I put my head on the pillow every evening before sleep.

• Эта подушка очень мягкая и удобная для отдыха.

  This pillow is very soft and comfortable for resting.

• В отеле нам дали новую подушку с ортопедической поддержкой.

  In the hotel, they gave us a new pillow with orthopedic support.

• Дети любят играть с подушками во время игр в гостиной.

  Children love playing with pillows during games in the living room.

• После долгого дня я всегда ищу прохладную подушку для расслабления.

  After a long day, I always look for a cool pillow to relax.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

подушка is a feminine noun in the first declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns for gender, number, and case. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: This noun does not have irregular inflections, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • подушечка (diminutive form, implying a smaller or more affectionate pillow; used in informal or endearing contexts)
  • подушка для головы (more descriptive, literal synonym; used when specifying type)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "подушка" is a specific object without a clear opposite in Russian vocabulary.

Related Phrases:

• подушка безопасности - Airbag (used in automotive contexts; literal translation with a specific application in safety equipment)
• сменная подушка - Replacement pillow (common in discussions about bedding or travel)
• ортопедическая подушка - Orthopedic pillow (refers to health-related pillows; used in medical or wellness contexts)

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "подушка" directly corresponds to the English "pillow" in most contexts, particularly for household items. It is a neutral, everyday term suitable for both formal and informal use. When selecting between translations, "подушка" is the standard choice, but diminutives like "подушечка" can add nuance for affection or size. Grammatically, remember that as a feminine noun, it requires appropriate adjective agreements (e.g., мягкая подушка - soft pillow). In spoken Russian, it's commonly used in domestic conversations or descriptions of comfort.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я беру подушка" instead of "Я беру подушку" (accusative case required after "брать").

  Correct: Я беру подушку. (Explanation: Verbs of motion or taking require the accusative case for direct objects.)

• Error: Confusing with similar words like "подушка" and "подушечка," leading to overuse of the diminutive in formal settings.

  Correct: In formal writing, stick to "подушка" unless emphasizing endearment. (Explanation: Diminutives can sound overly casual or childish in professional contexts.)

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "подушка" is a staple in traditional bedding, often associated with comfort and home life. While not deeply symbolic, pillows feature in folklore as symbols of rest and hospitality, such as in stories where a soft pillow represents a welcoming home. In modern contexts, high-quality pillows are valued in Russian households for health benefits, reflecting a cultural emphasis on practicality and well-being.

Related Concepts:

• матрас (mattress)
• постельное белье (bedding)
• одеяло (blanket)