Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'sleeve'

English Word: sleeve

Key Russian Translations:

• рукав /rʊˈkaf/ - [Formal, Singular, Used in everyday clothing descriptions]

Frequency: Medium (Common in daily conversations about clothing and fashion, but not as ubiquitous as basic words like "house").

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner; straightforward for new learners due to simple noun structure and common usage, but requires basic understanding of Russian noun declensions).

Pronunciation (Russian):

рукав: /rʊˈkaf/

Note on рукав: The stress is on the second syllable (/kaf/), which is a common feature in Russian nouns. Be careful with the rolled 'r' sound, which can be challenging for English speakers.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The part of a garment that covers the arm

Translation(s) & Context:

• рукав - Typically used in formal or everyday contexts when describing clothing items, such as shirts or jackets. It can be applied in both literal and metaphorical senses in Russian idioms.

Usage Examples:

• У этой рубашки длинные рукава.

  This shirt has long sleeves. (Demonstrates basic singular usage in a descriptive sentence.)

• Она всегда сворачивает рукава перед работой.

  She always rolls up her sleeves before work. (Shows the phrase in an idiomatic context, implying preparation for effort.)

• Рукава куртки были слишком узкие.

  The sleeves of the jacket were too narrow. (Illustrates adjective modification and plural form in a complaint scenario.)

• В зимней одежде важны теплые рукава.

  Warm sleeves are important in winter clothing. (Highlights usage in general advice or recommendations.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"рукав" is a masculine noun in Russian, belonging to the first declension group. It follows standard patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table outlining its basic inflections:

Note: This noun does not have irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for beginners. For example, in plural, it simply adds "-a" in nominative form.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: манжета (manzheta - cuff, often used for the end of a sleeve), обшлаг (obshlag - another term for cuff). Note: "манжета" is more specific to the wrist area and is commonly used in formal or tailoring contexts.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "рукав" is a physical descriptor. However, in metaphorical use, something like "голый" (goly - bare, as in bare arm) could imply the absence.

Related Phrases:

• Закатать рукава - Literally "to roll up sleeves," meaning to get to work or prepare for effort; used in motivational contexts.
• Длинные рукава - "Long sleeves," a common phrase in clothing descriptions or weather-related advice.
• С короткими рукавами - "With short sleeves," often seen in summer fashion discussions.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "рукав" directly corresponds to the English "sleeve" in most clothing-related contexts, but it's important to note its declension for grammatical accuracy in sentences. For instance, use the genitive form "рукава" when indicating possession, as in "цвет рубашки и рукава" (the color of the shirt and sleeves). It's neutral in terms of formality, making it versatile for both casual and formal speech. When choosing between synonyms like "манжета," opt for "рукав" for the full arm-covering part. Beginners should practice with simple sentences to master its inflections.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the nominative form "рукав" in all cases, e.g., saying "Я ношу рукав" instead of "Я ношу рукав" (which is correct here, but errors occur in other cases like "от рукавa" instead of "от рукава"). Correct: Always decline properly, e.g., "Я купил рубашку с длинным рукавом" (I bought a shirt with a long sleeve). Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, so ignoring declension can lead to confusion in meaning.

• Error: Confusing with similar words like "рука" (arm), leading to misuse in sentences. Correct: Use "рукав" specifically for clothing, e.g., "рука в рукаве" (arm in sleeve) vs. incorrect "рука как рукав." Explanation: These are related but distinct; mixing them can alter the sentence's intent.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, phrases like "закатать рукава" symbolize hard work and determination, often evoking images of manual labor or Soviet-era resilience. This reflects a broader cultural emphasis on practicality and endurance in daily life, which might not be as prominent in English-speaking contexts.

Related Concepts:

• рубашка (shirt)
• куртка (jacket)
• одежда (clothing)