Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'precaution'

English Word: precaution

Key Russian Translations:

• предосторожность [prʲɪdɐˈsto.rəʐ.nəsʲtʲ] - [Formal, Singular]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in everyday contexts like safety instructions, health advisories, and formal writing, but not as frequent as basic vocabulary).

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; learners at this level can grasp the concept with some exposure to noun declensions, but mastering inflections requires practice).

Pronunciation (Russian):

предосторожность: [prʲɪdɐˈsto.rəʐ.nəsʲtʲ]

Note on предосторожность: The stress falls on the fourth syllable ("rozh-"), which can be tricky for English speakers due to the rolled 'r' and soft 'zh' sound. Pronunciation may vary slightly in rapid speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A measure taken beforehand to prevent potential danger, harm, or unwanted outcomes.

Translation(s) & Context:

• предосторожность - Used in formal or safety-related contexts, such as medical advice or emergency procedures.

Usage Examples:

• Всегда принимайте предосторожность перед выходом на улицу в дождливую погоду.

  Always take precautions before going out in rainy weather.

• Водители должны соблюдать предосторожность на скользких дорогах.

  Drivers should observe precautions on slippery roads.

• Предосторожность — это ключ к предотвращению несчастных случаев на работе.

  Precaution is the key to preventing accidents at work.

• Медики рекомендуют предосторожность при контакте с больными.

  Medical professionals recommend taking precautions when in contact with the ill.

• В путешествиях не забывайте о предосторожности, чтобы избежать проблем.

  In travels, don't forget about precautions to avoid issues.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Предосторожность" is a feminine noun (3rd declension in Russian). It follows standard noun inflection patterns, with changes based on case, number, and gender. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The word is invariable in terms of gender but changes predictably with case and number, as shown. No irregular forms.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • осторожность (caution; more general and often interchangeable, but implies ongoing wariness rather than specific actions).
  • меры предосторожности (safety measures; a phrase that expands on the concept).
• Antonyms:
  • риск (risk; implies the opposite by embracing danger).
  • небрежность (negligence; suggests a lack of care leading to potential harm).

Related Phrases:

• Принять предосторожности - Take precautions; used in contexts like safety protocols or personal protection.
• Меры предосторожности - Safety measures; common in official guidelines, e.g., in health or travel advice.
• Без предосторожности - Without precaution; implies recklessness in risky situations.

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "предосторожность" directly corresponds to the English "precaution" as a noun, emphasizing proactive steps to avoid harm. It is typically used in formal or advisory contexts, such as medical, legal, or safety discussions. Unlike English, where "precaution" can sometimes be pluralized casually, in Russian, it's often paired with "меры" (measures) for emphasis. When choosing between synonyms like "осторожность," opt for "предосторожность" when referring to specific actions rather than a general state of mind. Grammatically, always consider case agreement with accompanying verbs or adjectives for natural flow.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "предосторожность" in the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я взял предосторожности" instead of "Я принял меры предосторожности."

  Correct: "Я принял предосторожность" (for singular) or "Я принял меры предосторожности" (for plural concepts). Explanation: Russian nouns must agree in case; beginners often forget to decline it properly, leading to awkward phrasing.

• Error: Confusing it with "осторожность" and using them interchangeably without context, e.g., "Будьте предосторожность" instead of "Будьте осторожны."

  Correct: "Принимайте предосторожность." Explanation: "Предосторожность" is a noun, not an adjective, so it can't directly replace "осторожный." This mix-up stems from similar English roots but requires attention to Russian parts of speech.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "предосторожность" often reflects a pragmatic approach to life, influenced by historical events like harsh winters or economic uncertainties. For instance, in everyday Russian life, precautions are heavily emphasized in areas like road safety or health, stemming from a collectivist mindset where individual actions protect the community. This contrasts with some Western cultures that might prioritize risk-taking, highlighting Russia's emphasis on stability and preparedness.

Related Concepts:

• безопасность (safety)
• риск (risk)
• защита (protection)