Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'postmodern'

English Word: postmodern

Key Russian Translations:

• Постмодернизм [pɐst.mɐˈdɛr.nʲɪzm] - [Formal, Academic]
• Постмодерн [pɐst.mɐˈdɛrn] - [Informal, Used in cultural discussions]

Frequency: Low (Primarily used in academic, artistic, and philosophical contexts; not common in everyday conversation)

Difficulty: C1 (Advanced) for both translations, as it involves understanding abstract concepts in Russian intellectual discourse; suitable for learners with strong vocabulary in philosophy and culture.

Pronunciation (Russian):

Постмодернизм: [pɐst.mɐˈdɛr.nʲɪzm]

Note on Постмодернизм: The stress falls on the third syllable ("dɛr"), which can be tricky for English speakers due to the Russian soft sign (ʲ) affecting the 'n' sound. Pronunciation may vary slightly in fast speech.

Audio: []

Постмодерн: [pɐst.mɐˈdɛrn]

Note on Постмодерн: Similar to the first, but shorter; the final 'n' is not softened, making it easier for beginners. Avoid over-emphasizing the 'r' sound, which is rolled in Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. Relating to postmodernism as a cultural and philosophical movement (e.g., in art, literature, and theory)

Translation(s) & Context:

• Постмодернизм - Used in formal academic writing or discussions about 20th-21st century cultural shifts, emphasizing skepticism toward grand narratives.
• Постмодерн - Applied in informal contexts like art criticism or casual conversations about modern culture, often to describe eclectic or ironic styles.

Usage Examples:

• В литературе постмодернизм часто сочетает элементы реальности и фантазии.

  In literature, postmodernism often combines elements of reality and fantasy.

• Этот фильм — классический пример постмодерна, с его иронией и отсылками к классике.

  This film is a classic example of postmodern, with its irony and references to classics.

• Постмодернизм повлиял на архитектуру, сделав её более эклектичной и playful.

  Postmodernism influenced architecture, making it more eclectic and playful.

• В философии постмодерн отвергает абсолютные истины.

  In philosophy, postmodern rejects absolute truths.

• Художники постмодернизма используют коллаж для критики общества.

  Postmodern artists use collage to critique society.

2. Describing something that is contemporary or beyond modern in a stylistic sense (e.g., in design or fashion)

Translation(s) & Context:

• Постмодерн - In creative or design contexts, to describe styles that blend old and new elements playfully.

Usage Examples:

• Её одежда в стиле постмодерн сочетает винтаж и современные материалы.

  Her clothing in postmodern style combines vintage and modern materials.

• Постмодерн в дизайне интерьера означает смешение стилей без строгих правил.

  Postmodern in interior design means mixing styles without strict rules.

• Этот дизайн — чистый постмодерн, с элементами из разных эпох.

  This design is pure postmodern, with elements from different eras.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both "Постмодернизм" and "Постмодерн" are masculine nouns in Russian, following standard declension patterns for borrowed words. They exhibit regular inflection based on grammatical case and number. Below is a table for "Постмодернизм" as an example:

For "Постмодерн", the inflections are similar but less commonly used in plural form due to its abstract nature. It is invariant in informal usage.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Постмодернистский (more adjectival, implying postmodernist characteristics; used for describing styles)
  • Антимодернизм (less common, emphasizing opposition to modernism)
• Antonyms:
  • Модернизм (modernism; represents the preceding movement)
  • Традиционализм (traditionalism; contrasts with innovative aspects)

Related Phrases:

• Постмодернистская литература - Postmodern literature; refers to works challenging traditional narratives.
• Кризис постмодерна - Crisis of postmodern; used in discussions about cultural shifts.
• Элементы постмодернизма - Elements of postmodernism; common in art analysis.

Usage Notes:

• While "postmodern" in English broadly covers cultural and philosophical ideas, in Russian, "Постмодернизм" is more formal and academic, whereas "Постмодерн" is often used in everyday or creative contexts. Choose based on the audience: use the former for scholarly writing and the latter for casual critiques.
• It typically appears in nominative case but requires correct declension in sentences, e.g., "в постмодернизме" (in postmodernism). Be mindful of gender agreement with adjectives.
• In Russian discourse, this term often carries a critical connotation, especially in post-Soviet contexts, so use it cautiously in cultural discussions.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "Постмодернизм" with "Модернизм" and using them interchangeably. Incorrect: "Этот стиль — модернизм." (when it should be postmodern). Correct: "Этот стиль — постмодернизм." Explanation: Modernism focuses on progress and innovation, while postmodernism critiques it; learners must differentiate based on context.
• Error: Forgetting to decline the noun in sentences. Incorrect: "О постмодернизм" (should be genitive). Correct: "О постмодернизме." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, which English speakers often overlook.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "Постмодернизм" gained prominence during the late Soviet era and post-perestroika period, influencing literature (e.g., works by Viktor Pelevin) and art as a response to ideological constraints. It often symbolizes a break from rigid state narratives, embodying irony and pluralism, which resonates with Russia's complex history of censorship and cultural revival.

Related Concepts:

• Модернизм
• Авангард
• Постструктурализм