Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'pliers'

English Word: pliers

Key Russian Translations:

• плоскогубцы [ˈploskəˌɡubtsɨ] - [Plural, Tool-related; commonly used in technical or everyday contexts]
• клещи [ˈklʲetɕɪ] - [Plural; more general term for clamps or pincers, Informal]

Frequency: Medium - This word is moderately common in contexts involving tools, mechanics, or DIY activities, but not as frequent in everyday casual conversation.

Difficulty: A2 (Elementary) for плоскогубцы; B1 (Intermediate) for клещи - Basic vocabulary for beginners, but understanding inflections may require intermediate knowledge.

Pronunciation (Russian):

плоскогубцы: [ˈploskəˌɡubtsɨ]

клещи: [ˈklʲetɕɪ]

Note on плоскогубцы: The stress is on the first syllable; pay attention to the palatalized 'ц' sound, which can be tricky for English speakers. A soft pronunciation is key for natural delivery.

Audio: []

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: A hand tool used for gripping, bending, or cutting, typically with two handles and jaws.

Translation(s) & Context:

• плоскогубцы - Used in technical or mechanical contexts, such as electronics or repairs; appropriate for formal and informal settings.
• клещи - A broader term for any clamping tool; often used in informal or everyday situations, like household fixes.

Usage Examples:

• Я взял плоскогубцы, чтобы зажать болт во время ремонта.

  I took the pliers to grip the bolt during the repair.

• Эти плоскогубцы идеальны для работы с проводами в электрике.

  These pliers are perfect for working with wires in electrical tasks.

• В мастерской всегда есть клещи на случай непредвиденных ситуаций.

  In the workshop, there are always pliers on hand for unexpected situations.

• Механик использовал клещи, чтобы отрезать изоляцию с кабеля.

  The mechanic used pliers to cut the insulation off the cable.

• Не забудь плоскогубцы в наборе инструментов для пикника – они пригодятся для костра.

  Don't forget the pliers in your tool set for the picnic – they'll come in handy for the fire.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both "плоскогубцы" and "клещи" are masculine plural nouns in Russian, which typically do not change in the nominative case but follow standard declension patterns for other cases. They are invariant in plural form, meaning they do not have singular equivalents in common usage.

Note: These nouns follow regular plural declension rules, with no irregularities, making them straightforward for learners once basic case patterns are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • инструмент для захвата (instrument for gripping) - A more descriptive phrase, used in formal contexts.
  • зажимы (clamps) - Similar to клещи, but less specific; often interchangeable in informal speech.
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as these are tools without clear opposites. However, related concepts might include "молоток" (hammer), which is for striking rather than gripping.

Related Phrases:

• пара плоскогубцев - A pair of pliers; used when referring to a set in everyday contexts.
• клещи для резки - Pliers for cutting; common in mechanical or DIY phrases, implying a specific function.
• использовать плоскогубцы осторожно - To use pliers carefully; a phrase emphasizing safety in tool handling.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "pliers" is most accurately translated as "плоскогубцы" for precision tools like those used in electronics, while "клещи" is broader and can encompass various clamping devices. English speakers should note that Russian nouns like these are always plural, so avoid using them in singular forms. Choose "плоскогубцы" for formal or technical discussions and "клещи" for informal settings. Grammatically, they require appropriate case agreement with prepositions, e.g., "с плоскогубцами" (with pliers). This helps in matching the exact context of the English word.

• Always pair with verbs like "использовать" (to use) or "взять" (to take) for natural phrasing.
• In professional contexts, specify the type, e.g., "электрические плоскогубцы" (electric pliers).

Common Errors:

English learners often mistakenly use "плоскогубец" as a singular form, but it's inherently plural in Russian. Incorrect: "Я взял плоскогубец" (I took a plier) – This sounds unnatural. Correct: "Я взял плоскогубцы" (I took pliers). Another error is confusing it with "клещи," leading to overuse; for example, saying "клещи" when "плоскогубцы" is more precise for wire work. Explanation: Russian requires attention to case and plurality, so always check the context to avoid these mismatches.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, tools like pliers are emblematic of the DIY and engineering traditions, especially in rural or industrial areas. Historically, during the Soviet era, such tools were essential in makeshift repairs due to resource scarcity, fostering a cultural emphasis on practicality and ingenuity in everyday problem-solving.

Related Concepts:

• молоток (hammer)
• гаечный ключ (wrench)
• отвертка (screwdriver)