Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'sermon'

English Word: sermon

Key Russian Translations:

• проповедь [prɐˈpovʲɪdʲ] - [Formal, used in religious contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in religious or ecclesiastical discussions, but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, per CEFR; requires familiarity with religious vocabulary and basic noun declensions)

Pronunciation (Russian):

проповедь: [prɐˈpovʲɪdʲ]

Note on проповедь: The stress is on the second syllable; the 'в' sound is a voiced labiodental fricative, which may be challenging for English speakers used to 'v' in words like "very." Pronounce it with a soft, flowing rhythm.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary meaning: A religious discourse or speech delivered by a clergy member, often in a church setting

Translation(s) & Context:

• проповедь - Used in formal religious contexts, such as Orthodox Christian services, to refer to a sermon that imparts moral or spiritual lessons.

Usage Examples:

• Воскресная проповедь в церкви была очень вдохновляющей.

  The Sunday sermon in the church was very inspiring.

• Священник произнес эмоциональную проповедь о любви и прощении.

  The priest delivered an emotional sermon about love and forgiveness.

• Во время праздника Пасхи проповедь привлекла много прихожан.

  During Easter celebrations, the sermon attracted many parishioners.

• Проповедь отца Иоанна всегда включает библейские цитаты.

  Father Ioann's sermon always includes biblical quotes.

• Молодежь часто обсуждает проповедь после службы.

  The youth often discuss the sermon after the service.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Проповедь" is a feminine noun (third declension in Russian). It follows standard patterns for feminine nouns ending in a consonant, with regular declensions based on case and number. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: This word does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners once basic declension rules are understood.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • речь (rɛt͡ɕ) - A general speech; less formal and not exclusively religious, often used for public addresses.
  • благовестие (blɐɡɐˈvʲɛstʲɪjɛ) - Evangelistic preaching; implies a broader message of good news, with a slight connotation of proselytizing.
• Antonyms:
  • критика (krʲɪˈtʲikə) - Criticism; used for negative or analytical discourse, contrasting with the positive, instructive nature of a sermon.
  • осуждение (ɐˈsudʑɪnʲjɛ) - Condemnation; implies judgment or rebuke, opposite to the uplifting purpose of a sermon.

Related Phrases:

• церковная проповедь - Church sermon; a phrase used for sermons specifically in a religious institution, often implying a traditional setting.
• проповедь на тему любви - Sermon on the topic of love; highlights how sermons can focus on specific themes in moral teaching.
• воскресная проповедь - Sunday sermon; common in Orthodox traditions, referring to weekly services.

Usage Notes:

"Проповедь" directly corresponds to "sermon" in English, particularly in Christian contexts, but it is most common in Russian Orthodox culture. It is typically used in formal or semi-formal settings and carries a spiritual connotation. When choosing between translations, opt for "проповедь" for religious speeches; avoid it in secular contexts where "речь" might be more appropriate. Grammatically, remember that as a feminine noun, it requires agreement in gender, number, and case with adjectives or verbs (e.g., "интересная проповедь" for "interesting sermon"). Be mindful of cultural nuances: in Russia, sermons often incorporate biblical references and are part of communal worship.

Common Errors:

• Confusing "проповедь" with "лекция" (lecture): English learners might misuse "проповедь" for any educational talk. Error: "Это была проповедь по истории" (This was a sermon on history). Correct: "Это была лекция по истории" (This was a lecture on history). Explanation: "Проповедь" implies religious content, while "лекция" is neutral and academic.

• Incorrect declension: Forgetting to change the ending in different cases, e.g., saying "о проповедь" instead of "о проповеди" in the prepositional case. Error: "Мы говорили о проповедь" (We talked about the sermon). Correct: "Мы говорили о проповеди." Explanation: Proper declension ensures grammatical accuracy in Russian sentences.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, particularly within the Russian Orthodox Church, "проповедь" is a key element of worship services, often delivered by priests during liturgy. It reflects deep historical ties to Christianity in Russia, dating back to the 10th century with the adoption of Orthodox faith. Sermons frequently draw from icons, saints' lives, and biblical stories, emphasizing community, morality, and spiritual reflection, which can differ from Western traditions where sermons might be more individualistic.

Related Concepts:

• молитва (prayer)
• литургия (liturgy)
• библия (Bible)