Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'screwdriver'

English Word: screwdriver

Key Russian Translations:

• отвертка [ɐtˈvʲertkə] - [Common noun, used in everyday contexts for tools]

Frequency: Medium (This word is commonly encountered in practical, everyday conversations involving tools, maintenance, or DIY activities, but not in highly formal or abstract contexts.)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner level; the word is straightforward for English speakers learning Russian, as it follows basic noun patterns and is frequently used in simple sentences.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

отвертка: [ɐtˈvʲertkə]

Note on отвертка: The stress is on the second syllable ('vʲert'). Pay attention to the palatalized 't' sound, which is a common challenge for English speakers. Variations in pronunciation may occur in regional dialects, but this IPA reflects standard Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A hand tool used for turning screws.

Translation(s) & Context:

• отвертка - Used in general contexts for tools, such as hardware stores, repairs, or mechanical work. It is a neutral, everyday term and can be applied in both formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• Я взял отвертку из ящика инструментов, чтобы закрутить винт в двери.

  I took the screwdriver from the toolbox to screw in the screw in the door.

• Без отвертки невозможно собрать этот мебельный набор самостоятельно.

  Without a screwdriver, it's impossible to assemble this furniture set by yourself.

• Механик использовал электрическую отвертку для быстрой починки машины.

  The mechanic used an electric screwdriver for quickly fixing the car.

• В школьном уроке труда мы учились работать с отверткой и другими инструментами.

  In the school woodworking class, we learned to work with a screwdriver and other tools.

• Если у вас нет отвертки, можно improvised один из подручных предметов.

  If you don't have a screwdriver, you can improvise one from handy items.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Отвертка" is a feminine noun in Russian (from the first declension group). It follows standard noun inflection patterns for case, number, and gender. There are no irregular forms, making it relatively easy for beginners.

Note: This table shows regular declensions. The word does not change in adjectives or verbs directly, but it can be modified in phrases (e.g., "электрическая отвертка" for "electric screwdriver").

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: винтовой ключ (vintovoy klyuch) - A more descriptive term for a specific type of screwdriver; гаечный ключ (if contextually similar, though not exact).
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a tool noun. However, in broader contexts, something like молоток (molotok, hammer) could be seen as a contrasting tool for different functions.

Explanation: Synonyms may vary slightly based on regional usage; "винтовой ключ" emphasizes the screwing mechanism and is used in technical contexts.

Related Phrases:

• набор отверток (naboр otvertok) - A set of screwdrivers; commonly used in hardware or DIY scenarios.
• использовать отвертку (ispol'zovat' otvertku) - To use a screwdriver; a basic phrase for instructional contexts.
• электрическая отвертка (elektricheskaya otvertka) - Electric screwdriver; refers to powered tools in modern settings.

Usage Notes:

This translation corresponds directly to the English "screwdriver" as a tool, making it a one-to-one match in most contexts. It is a neutral noun suitable for both formal (e.g., technical manuals) and informal (e.g., casual conversations) use. Be aware of grammatical gender in Russian—treat it as feminine when using adjectives or verbs (e.g., "хорошая отвертка" for "a good screwdriver"). When multiple tools are involved, opt for the plural form. English learners should note that Russian often specifies tool types more explicitly in phrases.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing the word as "ot-ver-tka" without the palatalized 't' sound. Correct: [ɐtˈvʲertkə]. Explanation: English speakers may overlook Russian's soft consonants; practice with native audio to avoid this.

• Error: Using the word in the wrong case, e.g., saying "с отвертка" instead of "с отверткой" (with the instrumental case). Correct: с отверткой. Explanation: Russian requires case agreement; always check the sentence structure for proper inflection.

• Error: Confusing it with similar tools, like saying "гаечный ключ" when meaning "screwdriver." Correct: Use "отвертка" specifically. Explanation: These are distinct; "гаечный ключ" means wrench, so context matters to prevent misunderstandings.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, tools like the screwdriver are emblematic of practical, hands-on skills, often associated with "sdelat' samomu" (do-it-yourself) traditions. During Soviet times, basic tools were essential for home repairs due to limited access to professional services, fostering a cultural emphasis on self-reliance. This word doesn't carry strong idiomatic connotations but reflects everyday resilience in Russian life.

Related Concepts:

• гаечный ключ (wrench)
• молоток (hammer)
• пила (saw)
• инструменты (tools, general term)