Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'psalm'

English Word: psalm

Key Russian Translations:

• псалом [psɐˈɫom] - [Formal, Literary, Religious context; used in theological or biblical discussions]

Frequency: Medium (Common in religious texts and discussions but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1-B2 on CEFR scale; requires familiarity with religious or literary vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

псалом: [psɐˈɫom]

Note on псалом: The stress falls on the second syllable; the 'л' sound can be softened in some dialects, making it closer to [psɐˈlʲom]. Pay attention to the initial 'пс' cluster, which is pronounced as a single consonant blend.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A sacred song or hymn from the Bible, especially the Book of Psalms.

Translation(s) & Context:

• псалом - Used in formal, religious, or literary contexts, such as discussing biblical texts or church services.

Usage Examples:

• В церкви мы пели псалом Давида во время службы.

  In church, we sang David's psalm during the service.

• Этот псалом часто цитируется в православных проповедях для вдохновения верующих.

  This psalm is often quoted in Orthodox sermons to inspire believers.

• В школьном уроке литературы мы анализировали псалом как поэтический текст.

  In our literature class, we analyzed the psalm as a poetic text.

• Псалом из Книги Псалмов помогает в размышлениях о жизни.

  A psalm from the Book of Psalms aids in reflections on life.

• Композитор адаптировал древний псалом для современной музыки.

  The composer adapted an ancient psalm for modern music.

Secondary Meaning: Any lyrical or poetic composition resembling a biblical psalm.

Translation(s) & Context:

• псалом - Used metaphorically in poetic or artistic contexts, though less common than in religious settings.

Usage Examples:

• Её стихотворение было настоящим псаломом природы, полным образов и эмоций.

  Her poem was a true psalm of nature, full of imagery and emotions.

• В его романе псалом отчаяния отражает внутренние страдания героя.

  In his novel, the psalm of despair reflects the hero's inner sufferings.

• Этот псалом радости прозвучал на концерте как гимн жизни.

  This psalm of joy was performed at the concert as a hymn to life.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"псалом" is a masculine noun in Russian, belonging to the second declension. It follows regular patterns for most cases but has some variations based on standard Russian grammar rules.

Note: The word is invariant in its stem for most forms, making it straightforward for learners, but be cautious with the plural forms in poetic or religious contexts.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • песнь (song; more general and less religious, often used for secular music)
  • гимн (hymn; implies praise or celebration, but can be non-religious)
• Antonyms:
  • проклятие (curse; opposite in tone, implying condemnation rather than praise)

Related Phrases:

• Псалмы Давидовы - Refers to the Psalms of David, a key section in the Bible; used in religious education or discussions.
• Петь псалом - To sing a psalm; common in worship or choral settings, implying a devotional act.
• Духовный псалом - Spiritual psalm; denotes a hymn with deep religious or meditative connotations.

Usage Notes:

"Псалом" directly corresponds to the English "psalm" in religious contexts, particularly within Orthodox Christianity, where it often refers to texts from the Book of Psalms. Use it in formal or literary settings rather than casual conversation. When choosing between translations like "псалом" and "песнь," opt for "псалом" if the context is specifically biblical; "песнь" is broader for general songs. Grammatically, ensure correct declension based on sentence structure, as Russian nouns change form to indicate case.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "псалом" with "песня" (song): Learners might use "песня" interchangeably, but it's less formal and not tied to religious texts. Correct usage: Say "псалом" for biblical hymns, e.g., Incorrect: "Это просто песня из Библии." Correct: "Это псалом из Библии." Explanation: "Песня" implies a secular tune, diluting the sacred connotation.

• Improper declension: Forgetting to change the ending in cases like genitive (e.g., saying "псалом" instead of "псалма"). Incorrect: "Книга псалом." Correct: "Книга псалма." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, so always adjust based on the noun's role in the sentence.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "псалом" is deeply rooted in Orthodox Christianity, often recited during services or personal devotion. It carries historical significance from the Byzantine era and reflects themes of faith, repentance, and praise in Russian literature, such as in the works of Pushkin or in folk traditions. Understanding this word helps English speakers appreciate the role of religion in Russian daily life and art.

Related Concepts:

• библия (Bible)
• молитва (prayer)
• гимн (hymn)