Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'slacks'

English Word: slacks

Key Russian Translations:

• брюки [ˈbrʲukʲi] - [Plural, General, Informal/Formal]

Frequency: Medium (Common in everyday clothing discussions but not as frequent as basic words like "одежда").

Difficulty: A2 (Elementary level; straightforward for beginners learning basic vocabulary, but requires understanding of plural forms in Russian).

Pronunciation (Russian):

брюки: [ˈbrʲukʲi]

Note on брюки: The initial "бр" sound is a voiced bilabial fricative followed by a palatalized "р", which can be challenging for English speakers; stress is on the first syllable. Variations may occur in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: Loose-fitting trousers typically worn for casual or professional attire.

Translation(s) & Context:

• брюки - Used in general contexts for pants, especially in formal or semi-formal settings like work or daily wear. Common in both spoken and written Russian.

Usage Examples:

• Я надеваю брюки на работу каждый день.

  I wear slacks to work every day. (This example shows the word in a daily routine context, emphasizing habitual action.)

• Эти брюки слишком тесные; мне нужны более удобные.

  These slacks are too tight; I need more comfortable ones. (Illustrates the word in a descriptive, evaluative sentence about fit and comfort.)

• В шкафу висят брюки разных цветов.

  There are slacks of different colors hanging in the closet. (Demonstrates the word in a plural context describing variety.)

• Она выбрала брюки для вечернего мероприятия.

  She chose slacks for the evening event. (Shows usage in a decision-making or event-specific context.)

• Брюки из хлопка лучше подходят для лета.

  Slacks made of cotton are better suited for summer. (Highlights the word in a comparative statement about material and season.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Брюки" is a plural noun in Russian and does not have a singular form in common usage. It belongs to the second declension and follows standard plural noun patterns. Below is a table of its inflections across cases:

Note: As a plural-only noun, it does not inflect for singular. This is common in Russian for items like clothing that are inherently plural.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • штаны - More informal, often used for casual pants.
  • панталоны - Slightly outdated or formal variant, implying wider-legged trousers.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a clothing item. However, conceptual opposites might include "юбка" (skirt) in gender-specific contexts.

Related Phrases:

• комбинезонные брюки - Overalls or jumpsuit pants; refers to pants as part of a one-piece outfit. (Used in workwear or casual fashion contexts.)
• спортивные брюки - Sport pants or athletic slacks; common in fitness or leisure activities. (Implies comfort and functionality for exercise.)
• джинсовые брюки - Jeans; a specific type of slacks made from denim. (Popular in everyday, informal settings.)

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "брюки" directly corresponds to "slacks" in English as loose-fitting trousers, but it is always used in plural form, unlike English where "slacks" can imply a pair. It works in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for professional emails or casual conversations. When choosing between synonyms like "штаны", opt for "брюки" in more polished settings to avoid sounding too colloquial. Pay attention to case agreements in sentences, as Russian nouns change based on grammatical role.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "брюка" as a singular form. Correct: Russian does not use a singular for "брюки"; always treat it as plural. Example of error: "Я ношу брюка" (incorrect). Correct: "Я ношу брюки". Explanation: This mistake arises from direct translation habits; remember Russian plural-only nouns.

• Error: Confusing with "юбка" (skirt) in gender-specific contexts. Correct: Ensure context clarifies the item; e.g., "мужские брюки" for men's slacks. Explanation: English learners might mix up clothing terms; double-check for accuracy in descriptions.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "брюки" are a staple in both urban and rural attire, reflecting practicality in varying climates. Historically, they became popular in the 20th century with Western influences, symbolizing modernity in Soviet fashion. Today, they carry no strong cultural connotations but are essential in professional environments, aligning with Russia's formal work culture.

Related Concepts:

• рубашка (shirt)
• пиджак (jacket)
• костюм (suit)