Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'synapse'

English Word: synapse

Key Russian Translations:

• синапс [sʲɪˈnaps] - [Formal, Scientific]

Frequency: Low (Primarily used in scientific, medical, and academic contexts; not common in everyday conversation).

Difficulty: Advanced (C1-C2 level, suitable for learners with a strong background in biology or neuroscience; requires familiarity with technical vocabulary).

Pronunciation (Russian):

синапс: [sʲɪˈnaps]

Note on синапс: The pronunciation features a palatalized 's' sound ([sʲ]), which is common in Russian but may be challenging for English speakers. Stress falls on the second syllable.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

Translation(s) & Context:

• синапс - Used in formal scientific discussions, such as in biology, neurology, or psychology contexts to describe neural connections.

Usage Examples:

• В нервной системе синапс играет ключевую роль в передаче импульсов между нейронами.

  In the nervous system, the synapse plays a key role in transmitting impulses between neurons.

• Нарушение работы синапса может привести к неврологическим расстройствам, таким как эпилепсия.

  Disruption of synapse function can lead to neurological disorders, such as epilepsy.

• Учёные изучают, как синапс формируется во время развития мозга.

  Scientists study how the synapse forms during brain development.

• В процессе обучения синапс укрепляется, что улучшает память и когнитивные функции.

  During the learning process, the synapse strengthens, which improves memory and cognitive functions.

• Синапс — это точка контакта, где нейротрансмиттеры передают сигналы.

  The synapse is the point of contact where neurotransmitters transmit signals.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Синапс" is a masculine noun (мужской род) in Russian and follows the standard third-declension pattern for nouns ending in a consonant. It has regular inflections based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its declensions in the singular form (plural is less common but follows similar patterns).

Note: In plural, it becomes "синапсы" in nominative, with corresponding changes (e.g., genitive plural: синапсов). As a technical term, it is often used in its base form without inflection in scientific writing.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: синаптический контакт (synaptic contact; more descriptive, used interchangeably in detailed explanations), синаптическое соединение (synaptic connection; emphasizes the linking aspect).
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "синапс" is a specific anatomical term; however, in broader contexts, terms like разрыв (break) or изоляция (isolation) might contrast with connectivity.

Related Phrases:

• нейронный синапс - Neural synapse; refers to synapses in the context of neurons, commonly used in neurobiology.
• синаптическая передача - Synaptic transmission; describes the process of signal transfer at the synapse.
• химический синапс - Chemical synapse; specifies the type involving neurotransmitters, as opposed to electrical synapses.

Usage Notes:

"Синапс" directly corresponds to the English "synapse" in scientific contexts, maintaining a one-to-one translation in fields like biology and medicine. It is typically used in formal settings, such as academic papers or lectures, and should be avoided in casual conversation due to its technical nature. When choosing between synonyms like "синаптический контакт," opt for "синапс" for brevity. Grammatically, ensure correct declension based on sentence structure, e.g., use genitive for possession ("функции синапса"). English learners should note that Russian scientific terminology often borrows from Greek/Latin roots, making it somewhat intuitive but requiring precise pronunciation.

Common Errors:

• Error: Misdeclining the noun, e.g., using "синапс" in the dative case as "синапс" instead of "синапсу" (e.g., "Я даю синапс" instead of "Я даю синапсу"). Correct: Always adjust for case, as in "Я изучаю синапс" (nominative) vs. "Я изучаю синапс в контексте" (prepositional: синапсе). Explanation: Russian nouns change endings based on grammatical role, which English speakers often overlook.

• Error: Confusing with similar terms, e.g., using "синапс" to mean a general "connection" in non-neural contexts. Correct: Reserve for neural contexts only; use "связь" for general connections. Explanation: This can lead to misunderstandings in scientific discussions.

Cultural Notes:

As a term rooted in neuroscience, "синапс" does not carry significant cultural connotations in Russian society. However, it reflects the global influence of Western science, with Russian researchers contributing to studies on synaptic plasticity, which has implications in understanding human cognition and mental health, aligning with Russia's emphasis on education and medical advancements.

Related Concepts:

• нейрон (neuron)
• мозг (brain)
• нейротрансмиттер (neurotransmitter)
• синаптическая пластичность (synaptic plasticity)