Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'renown'

English Word: renown

Key Russian Translations:

• известность (/ɪzˈvʲestnəstʲ/) - [Formal, Abstract noun, Used in contexts discussing fame or reputation]
• слава (/ˈslavə/) - [Formal/Informal, Often poetic or historical, Used for glory or widespread recognition]

Frequency: Medium (Common in literature, media, and everyday discussions of fame, but not as frequent as basic vocabulary like "name").

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, per CEFR; involves understanding noun inflections and contextual usage. For 'известность', it's similar; for 'слава', it may vary slightly based on poetic connotations, still B1.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

известность: /ɪzˈvʲestnəstʲ/

Note on известность: The stress is on the second syllable; the 'в' is pronounced as a voiced fricative, which can be tricky for English speakers. Variations may occur in regional dialects.

слава: /ˈslavə/

Note on слава: Stress on the first syllable; the 'a' at the end is reduced in casual speech, sounding like a schwa.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Fame or celebrity (the primary meaning of 'renown')

Translation(s) & Context:

• известность - Used in formal, professional, or academic contexts, such as discussing a person's achievements in history or science.
• слава - Applied in more emotional or cultural contexts, like artistic fame or heroic deeds, often with a positive connotation.

Usage Examples:

• Его известность распространилась по всему миру благодаря научным открытиям.

  His renown spread across the world due to his scientific discoveries.

• Слава этого писателя immortalizes его в русской литературе.

  The renown of this writer immortalizes him in Russian literature.

• В эпоху интернета, известность можно завоевать за ночь через социальные сети.

  In the age of the internet, renown can be achieved overnight through social media.

• Её слава как актрисы принесла ей множество наград.

  Her renown as an actress brought her numerous awards.

• Несмотря на свою известность, он предпочитает тихую жизнь вдали от толпы.

  Despite his renown, he prefers a quiet life away from the crowd.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both 'известность' and 'слава' are feminine nouns in Russian, which undergo declension based on case, number, and gender. They follow standard patterns for third-declension nouns.

Note: These nouns do not change in plural forms as frequently, but 'славы' can become 'славы' in plural genitive. They are regular in most aspects, making them straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: слава (similar but more poetic), популярность (more modern, everyday fame)
• Antonyms: неизвестность (obscurity), забвение (forgetfulness; implies complete lack of renown)

Explanation: 'Популярность' is a synonym for 'известность' but often implies current trends, while 'неизвестность' directly contrasts by denoting anonymity.

Related Phrases:

• мировая известность - Worldwide renown; used for global recognition, e.g., of a scientist or artist.
• вечная слава - Eternal renown; often in historical or literary contexts, implying lasting legacy.
• заслуженная слава - Well-deserved renown; emphasizes earned fame through merit.

Usage Notes:

'Renown' in English typically corresponds to 'известность' in neutral or formal Russian contexts, while 'слава' adds a layer of grandeur or heroism. Choose 'известность' for factual discussions and 'слава' for emotional or cultural ones. Be mindful of case changes in sentences, as Russian requires agreement with other elements. For example, it's common in formal writing but less so in casual speech.

• Always consider the context: 'Известность' might be used in professional bios, whereas 'слава' fits narratives or praises.
• Grammar note: These nouns require the appropriate preposition based on case, e.g., 'о известности' for 'about renown'.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "я думаю о известность" instead of "я думаю об известности".
  Correct: "Я думаю об известности." (The prepositional case is needed after 'о'.)
  Explanation: English speakers often overlook Russian case requirements, leading to grammatical errors.
• Error: Confusing 'слава' with 'slava' as a name (e.g., a proper noun), treating it as unchangeable.
  Correct: Decline it properly, e.g., "Его слава велика" (His renown is great).
  Explanation: In Russian, common nouns must inflect, unlike in English where 'renown' remains static.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, 'слава' often carries historical weight, linked to figures like war heroes or literary giants (e.g., Pushkin's 'слава'). It reflects a value on enduring legacy, contrasting with Western ideas of fleeting fame, and is frequently used in patriotic contexts like Victory Day celebrations.

Related Concepts:

• популярность
• успех
• репутация