Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'seashell'

English Word: seashell

Key Russian Translations:

• ракушка [IPA: rɐˈkuʂkə] - [Informal, Commonly used in everyday contexts]

Frequency: Medium (This word is moderately common in discussions about nature, marine life, or beach-related topics in Russian.)

Difficulty: A2 (Elementary) - Suitable for beginners, as it involves basic vocabulary without complex grammar, but requires familiarity with Russian noun inflections.

Pronunciation (Russian):

ракушка: [IPA: rɐˈkuʂkə]

Note on ракушка: The stress is on the second syllable ('ku'), and the 'ш' sound is a soft, palatalized 'sh' which can be challenging for English speakers. Practice the rolled 'r' for authenticity.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: The hard outer shell of a sea creature, often found on beaches.

Translation(s) & Context:

• ракушка - Used in casual conversations about marine life, nature, or collecting items from the sea; appropriate for informal or educational contexts.

Usage Examples:

• Я нашел ракушку на пляже во время отпуска.

  I found a seashell on the beach during my vacation. (This example shows the word in a simple declarative sentence about discovery.)

• Дети любят собирать ракушки у моря.

  Children love collecting seashells by the sea. (Illustrates the word in a plural context with a verb of action.)

• Эта ракушка имеет красивый перламутровый блеск.

  This seashell has a beautiful pearly shine. (Demonstrates descriptive usage in a sentence about appearance.)

• В музее есть коллекция ракушек из разных частей мира.

  In the museum, there is a collection of seashells from different parts of the world. (Shows the word in a formal or educational setting.)

• Ракушка, которую я принес, напоминает мне о лете.

  The seashell I brought reminds me of summer. (Highlights emotional or associative usage.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"ракушка" is a feminine noun in the first declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns, changing based on case and number. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • морская раковина (more formal, often used in scientific contexts; implies a broader category of sea shells)
  • морской панцирь (used when emphasizing the protective aspect, but less common)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "seashell" is a specific noun without a clear opposite in Russian.

Related Phrases:

• собрать ракушки - To collect seashells (Common in contexts of beach activities or hobbies).
• ракушка на берегу - Seashell on the shore (Used in descriptive narratives about coastal scenes).
• коллекция ракушек - Collection of seashells (Refers to hobbies or museum exhibits, with a connotation of value or rarity).

Usage Notes:

"ракушка" directly corresponds to "seashell" in English and is the most straightforward translation for everyday use. It is versatile across informal and formal contexts but is more common in spoken language. Be mindful of Russian noun genders—it's feminine—so adjectives and verbs must agree accordingly (e.g., "красивая ракушка" for "beautiful seashell"). When choosing between synonyms like "морская раковина," opt for it in scientific or formal writing for precision.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the word without proper inflection, e.g., saying "Я нашел ракушка" instead of "Я нашел ракушку" (incorrect accusative case).

  Correct: "Я нашел ракушку." Explanation: Russian requires nouns to change based on case; in this sentence, accusative is needed for the direct object.

• Error: Confusing it with "ракушка" as in a type of pastry (which is unrelated); learners might mix it up in verbal contexts.

  Correct: In marine contexts, always use with descriptors like "морская ракушка" to avoid ambiguity. Explanation: Context clarifies meaning, but explicit clarification helps non-native speakers.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, seashells like "ракушка" are often associated with summer vacations at the Black Sea or Baltic coast. They symbolize leisure, nature, and nostalgia, frequently appearing in folk art or children's stories, reflecting Russia's rich maritime heritage despite its vast landlocked areas.

Related Concepts:

• пляж (beach)
• море (sea)
• морской (marine)