Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'statue'

English Word: statue

Key Russian Translations:

• статуя [ˈstatʊjə] - [Formal, used in artistic or historical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in discussions of art, history, and public spaces)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, as it involves basic noun declensions and vocabulary related to culture)

Pronunciation (Russian):

статуя: [ˈstatʊjə]

Note on статуя: The stress is on the first syllable; the "у" sound is similar to the "oo" in "book". Pronunciation may vary slightly in regional dialects.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: A carved or cast figure of a person or animal, especially one that is life-sized or larger, often used in public art or memorials.

Translation(s) & Context:

• статуя - Typically used in formal contexts like museums, parks, or historical descriptions; implies a permanent, artistic representation.

Usage Examples:

• В центре площади стоит величественная статуя Петра Великого.

  In the center of the square stands a majestic statue of Peter the Great.

• Эта статуя из бронзы была создана известным скульптором в XIX веке.

  This bronze statue was created by a famous sculptor in the 19th century.

• Туристы фотографируются рядом со статуей Ленина в парке.

  Tourists are taking photos next to the statue of Lenin in the park.

• Статуя в музее представляет собой символ национальной истории.

  The statue in the museum represents a symbol of national history.

• Во время реставрации статуя была покрыта специальным лаком для защиты.

  During restoration, the statue was coated with special lacquer for protection.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Статуя" is a feminine noun in Russian, and it follows the standard first declension pattern for nouns ending in -я. It changes based on case and number. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: The word is invariant in terms of gender and does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: памятник (pamyatnik) - Often used interchangeably for memorials, but "памятник" can imply a broader monument; изваяние (izvayanie) - More literary, emphasizing sculpture.
• Antonyms: руины (ruiny) - Refers to ruins or decayed structures, contrasting with the permanence of a statue.

Related Phrases:

• Бронзовая статуя - A bronze statue; commonly used in contexts of public art or historical figures.
• Памятная статуя - Memorial statue; implies emotional or historical significance.
• Статуя свободы - Statue of Liberty; a fixed phrase for iconic symbols, often in cultural discussions.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "статуя" directly corresponds to the English "statue" in most contexts, but it is more commonly used in formal or artistic settings rather than everyday conversation. Be mindful of declensions when using it in sentences; for example, always adjust for case based on its role (e.g., genitive for possession). If the statue has cultural importance, pair it with adjectives like "величественная" (majestic) for nuance. When choosing between synonyms like "памятник", opt for "статуя" if the focus is on the artistic form rather than the commemorative aspect.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "статую" in the nominative case when it should be accusative, e.g., saying "Я вижу статуя" instead of "Я вижу статую". Correct: The accusative form is required after verbs like "видеть" (to see). Explanation: Russian nouns change based on case, so learners must identify the governing preposition or verb.

• Error: Confusing with "скульптура" (sculpture), treating them as identical; e.g., using "статуя" for a small indoor piece. Correct: "Скульптура" is a broader term for any sculpted work, while "статуя" specifically means a standalone, often large figure. Explanation: This can lead to imprecise language; check context to differentiate.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, statues like those of historical figures (e.g., Lenin or Peter the Great) often hold significant symbolic value, representing national pride or Soviet-era history. Many statues in Russia are tied to events like the Great Patriotic War, serving as focal points for public remembrance and tourism, which can evoke strong patriotic emotions.

Related Concepts:

• скульптура (sculpture)
• памятник (monument)
• изваяние (effigy or carved figure)