Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'semicircle'

English Word: semicircle

Key Russian Translations:

• полукруг [pɐlʊˈkruɡ] - [Neutral; used in general, mathematical, and everyday contexts]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in educational, scientific, and technical discussions, but not in casual everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; requires basic understanding of Russian nouns and geometry-related vocabulary, as per CEFR standards)

Pronunciation (Russian):

полукруг: [pɐlʊˈkruɡ]

Note on полукруг: The stress falls on the second syllable ("kruɡ"), which is a common feature in Russian compound words. Be mindful of the soft "л" sound, which can be challenging for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

1. A half of a circle, often referring to a shape or arc in geometry or real-world objects.

Translation(s) & Context:

• полукруг - Used in mathematical, architectural, or descriptive contexts, such as describing shapes in diagrams or physical objects.

Usage Examples:

• Этот полукруг имеет радиус 5 сантиметров и используется в чертежах.

  This semicircle has a radius of 5 centimeters and is used in drawings.

• В парке есть фонтан в форме полукруга, который освещается по вечерам.

  In the park, there is a semicircular fountain that is lit up in the evenings.

• Геометр нарисовал полукруг для иллюстрации теоремы Пифагора.

  The geometer drew a semicircle to illustrate the Pythagorean theorem.

• Полукруг на экране индикатора показывает уровень заряда батареи.

  The semicircle on the indicator screen shows the battery charge level.

• Архитектор спроектировал полукруглую арку для входа в здание.

  The architect designed a semicircular arch for the building entrance.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Полукруг" is a masculine noun in Russian, following the standard patterns for second-declension nouns. It has regular inflections based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

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

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: половина круга (polovina kruga) - Less formal, literally means "half of a circle"; used in explanatory contexts with slight emphasis on division.
• Antonyms: круг (krug) - Refers to a full circle, contrasting the incomplete shape of a semicircle.

Related Phrases:

• Полукруглый стол - A semicircular table; often used in dining or meeting rooms for space efficiency.
• Полукруглая арка - A semicircular arch; common in architecture, referring to curved doorways or bridges.
• В форме полукруга - In the shape of a semicircle; used to describe objects like arenas or pathways.

Usage Notes:

"Полукруг" directly corresponds to the English "semicircle" in both literal and metaphorical uses, but it's most common in technical or descriptive language. In formal contexts, such as education or science, it's preferred over more verbose phrases like "половина круга." Be aware that Russian nouns like this one must agree in case, number, and gender with other elements in the sentence, which can affect word order. When choosing between translations, use "полукруг" for precision in geometric discussions, but opt for synonyms in casual explanations to vary your language.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "полукруг" with "круг" (circle) - Error: Saying "Это круг" when meaning "semicircle." Correct: "Это полукруг." Explanation: English learners often overlook the prefix "полу-" which indicates "half," leading to inaccurate descriptions in geometric contexts.
• Improper inflection - Error: Using "полукруг" in the wrong case, e.g., "Я вижу полукруг" instead of "Я вижу полукруга" in genitive contexts. Correct: Match the case, such as "Я вижу полукруга на чертеже." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, so always consider the sentence structure to avoid grammatical errors.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, semicircular shapes like "полукруг" are often seen in traditional architecture, such as in Orthodox church domes or public plazas, symbolizing harmony and completeness in design. While not deeply tied to folklore, this shape appears in educational contexts to teach geometry, reflecting Russia's emphasis on STEM fields in schooling.

Related Concepts:

• круг (circle)
• овал (oval)
• арка (arch)