Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'sledgehammer'

English Word: sledgehammer

Key Russian Translations:

• кувалда [kʊˈvalda] - [Formal, commonly used in technical or everyday contexts]

Frequency: Medium (This word is not extremely common in everyday conversation but appears frequently in contexts involving tools, construction, or manual labor in Russian-speaking regions.)

Difficulty: A2 (Beginner; suitable for elementary learners as it involves basic vocabulary related to tools, with straightforward pronunciation and usage.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

кувалда: [kʊˈvalda]

Note on кувалда: The stress falls on the second syllable ('val'), which is a common feature in Russian nouns. Be mindful of the 'у' sound, which is a short 'u' as in "book". Variations in regional accents may soften the consonants slightly.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The primary meaning: A heavy hammer used for breaking rocks, concrete, or other hard materials, often in construction or demolition.

Translation(s) & Context:

• кувалда - Typically used in formal or technical contexts, such as construction sites, DIY projects, or descriptions of tools; it emphasizes the tool's weight and purpose for heavy-duty tasks.

Usage Examples:

• Я взял кувалду из гаража, чтобы разбить старый фундамент.

  I took the sledgehammer from the garage to break the old foundation.

• В строительстве часто используют кувалду для разрушения стен.

  In construction, they often use a sledgehammer to demolish walls.

• Ему пришлось купить кувалду, так как обычный молоток не справился.

  He had to buy a sledgehammer because the regular hammer wasn't sufficient.

• Кувалда – это незаменимый инструмент для ремонта в деревне.

  A sledgehammer is an indispensable tool for repairs in the countryside.

• После работы с кувалдой он всегда чувствует усталость в руках.

  After working with the sledgehammer, he always feels tired in his arms.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Кувалда" is a feminine noun in the first declension group. It follows regular patterns for Russian nouns, with changes based on case, number, and gender. Below is a table outlining its basic inflections:

Note: This noun does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners. If used in compound phrases, inflections may vary based on context.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: молот (hammer; more general and lighter tool, often used interchangeably in casual contexts but less emphasis on weight), тяжёлый молот (heavy hammer; specifies weight without the exact connotation of "sledgehammer").
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as "кувалда" is a specific tool; however, a contrasting concept might be лёгкий инструмент (light tool), such as отвертка (screwdriver).

Related Phrases:

• тяжёлая кувалда - Heavy sledgehammer; used to describe a particularly robust version, often in construction contexts.
• разбить кувалдой - To break with a sledgehammer; a common phrase for demolition work, implying forceful action.
• кувалда для ремонта - Sledgehammer for repairs; refers to its utility in home or vehicle maintenance.

Usage Notes:

"Кувалда" directly corresponds to "sledgehammer" in English, emphasizing a tool for heavy, blunt-force tasks. It is neutral in tone and can be used across formal and informal settings, but it's more common in practical or technical discussions. When choosing between translations like "кувалда" and "молот", opt for "кувалда" if the context involves significant weight and power. Grammatically, remember that as a feminine noun, it requires feminine agreement in adjectives (e.g., "большая кувалда" for "big sledgehammer"). Avoid overusing it in metaphorical speech, as it's primarily literal in Russian.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "кувалда" with "молот" and using it for lighter tasks. Incorrect: "Я использовал кувалду для вбивания гвоздя." (I used the sledgehammer to hammer a nail.) Correct: "Я использовал молот для вбивания гвоздя." (I used a hammer to hammer a nail.) Explanation: "Кувалда" implies a much heavier tool, so it's inappropriate for small jobs, leading to inefficiency or safety issues.

• Error: Incorrect inflection in sentences, such as using the wrong case. Incorrect: "Я видел кувалда в магазине." (I saw sledgehammer in the store; wrong case.) Correct: "Я видел кувалду в магазине." (I saw the sledgehammer in the store; accusative case.) Explanation: Russian requires proper case agreement, so learners must pay attention to the noun's role in the sentence.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "кувалда" often symbolizes brute force or manual labor, appearing in folklore and literature as a tool of the working class. For instance, in Soviet-era stories, it might represent industrial strength or perseverance, reflecting Russia's historical emphasis on heavy industry and DIY culture in rural areas.

Related Concepts:

• молот (hammer)
• топор (axe)
• инструменты (tools)
• ремонт (repair)