Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'poltroon'

English Word: poltroon

Key Russian Translations:

• Трус [ˈtrus] - [Informal]

Frequency: Medium (The word is commonly used in everyday Russian conversations and literature, but not as ubiquitous as basic vocabulary.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1-B2) - Suitable for learners with a grasp of basic grammar, as it involves simple noun forms and common contexts, though understanding nuances requires contextual exposure.

Pronunciation (Russian):

Трус: [ˈtrus]

Note on Трус: The stress falls on the first syllable. The "у" is pronounced as a short "u" sound, similar to "oo" in "book." Be cautious of the hard "р" sound, which is rolled in standard Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A coward or a person lacking courage (archaic English usage)

Translation(s) & Context:

• Трус - Used in informal, everyday contexts to describe someone who is timid or avoids danger, often with a negative connotation in casual speech or literature.

Usage Examples:

• Он трус и всегда избегает конфликтов.

  He is a coward and always avoids conflicts. (This example shows the word in a simple declarative sentence, highlighting personal traits in everyday conversation.)

• В фильме главный герой оказался трусом в решающий момент.

  In the movie, the main character turned out to be a coward at the crucial moment. (Illustrates usage in narrative contexts, such as storytelling or film reviews.)

• Не будь трусом; попробуй преодолеть страх!

  Don't be a coward; try to overcome your fear! (Demonstrates imperative usage, encouraging action and contrasting with bravery in motivational speech.)

• Его друзья считали его трусом за отказ от приключений.

  His friends considered him a coward for refusing adventures. (Shows the word in social judgment contexts, emphasizing relational dynamics.)

• Трус в истории часто становится антигероем.

  A coward in history often becomes an anti-hero. (Used in more abstract or literary discussions, linking to themes in Russian culture.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Трус" is a masculine noun in the third declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: The plural form "Трусы" can also mean "underpants" in modern Russian, which is a homonym and may lead to confusion. In the context of "poltroon," use the singular for individual reference.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Боягуз - Similar to "трус" but often implies more extreme fear; used in formal or literary contexts.
  • Трусливый - An adjective form, meaning "cowardly," which can describe behavior rather than a person.
• Antonyms:
  • Храбрый - Meaning brave, used to contrast cowardice in heroic narratives.
  • Смелый - Meaning bold or courageous, common in everyday positive descriptions.

Related Phrases:

• Трус как заяц - A coward like a hare (This phrase compares cowardice to the timid nature of a hare, often used in folklore or idioms to emphasize fearfulness.)
• Быть трусом - To be a coward (A simple fixed expression for self-reflection or accusation in conversations.)
• Трус в бою - A coward in battle (Refers to military or competitive contexts, highlighting failure under pressure.)

Usage Notes:

"Трус" directly corresponds to the archaic English word "poltroon" as a label for someone lacking courage, but it is more commonly used in informal Russian speech. It carries a derogatory tone and is best avoided in formal writing; opt for more neutral descriptions like "человек без мужества" in professional contexts. When choosing between synonyms, use "трус" for straightforward, everyday accusations, but "боягуз" for more intense or literary portrayals. Grammatically, it functions as a standard masculine noun, so ensure correct declension based on sentence structure.

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using "трусы" in the plural form to mean "cowards," which actually means "underpants." Correct: Stick to the singular "трус" for the intended meaning. Example of error: "Они трусы" (They are underpants) vs. Correct: "Они трусы" should be "Они трусы" wait, no—error example: "Мои друзья — трусы" (implying they are underpants). Instead, say "Мои друзья — трусы" is wrong; correct is "Мои друзья — трусы" isn't right—clarify: Error: "Они трусы" (They are cowards) might be misunderstood. Correct: "Они трусы" isn't standard; use "Они трусы" properly as "They are cowards" but avoid plural confusion by saying "Они — трусы" with context.

• Mistake: Confusing with adjectives, e.g., saying "Он трус" instead of using it as a noun properly. Correct: Ensure it's used in appropriate syntactic positions, like "Он — трус."

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the concept of a "tрус" often appears in folklore and literature, such as in folktales where cowardly characters face moral dilemmas, reflecting themes of heroism in works by authors like Pushkin. This word underscores the cultural value placed on bravery, especially in historical contexts like wartime, where cowardice was heavily stigmatized.

Related Concepts:

• Храбрость (bravery)
• Мужество (courage)
• Боязнь (fear)