Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'teacup'

English Word: teacup

Key Russian Translations:

• чашка /ˈtʂaʂ.kə/ - [Common noun, used for cups in general, including those for tea; Informal]

Frequency: Medium (This word is commonly encountered in everyday Russian conversations about household items, but not as frequent as basic words like "дом" for house.)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner level, as it is a simple, concrete noun with straightforward usage; suitable for early learners of Russian.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

чашка: /ˈtʂaʂ.kə/

Note on чашка: The initial "ч" sound is a voiceless palatal affricate, similar to the "ch" in "church" but softer. Stress is on the first syllable. Variations in pronunciation may occur in regional dialects, such as in southern Russia where it might sound slightly more aspirated.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

A cup used for drinking tea or similar hot beverages

Translation(s) & Context:

• чашка - Typically used in casual, everyday contexts for any cup, but can specify a teacup when paired with "чайная" (e.g., in tea-drinking scenarios like family gatherings or cafes).

Usage Examples:

• Я наливаю чай в свою любимую чашку.

  I pour tea into my favorite teacup. (This example shows the noun in a simple declarative sentence, emphasizing possession and routine action.)

• Эта старая чашка принадлежит моей бабушке.

  This old teacup belongs to my grandmother. (Illustrates the noun in a possessive context, highlighting familial or historical use.)

• В русской традиции чашка часто используется с самоваром.

  In Russian tradition, a teacup is often used with a samovar. (Demonstrates cultural context and combination with other objects in a sentence.)

• Не трогай горячую чашку, она только что из микроволновки.

  Don't touch the hot teacup; it just came out of the microwave. (Shows the noun in an imperative sentence with an adjective, focusing on safety and immediate situations.)

• Каждое утро я начинаю с чая в этой чашке.

  Every morning, I start with tea in this teacup. (Exemplifies habitual action and daily routine usage.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Чашка" is a feminine noun in the first declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns for gender, number, and case. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: The word is regular and does not have irregular inflections, making it easy for beginners to learn.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • Кружка (kružka) - Similar to a mug; often used interchangeably for larger cups, with a slight connotation of informality in home settings.
  • Чайник (čájnik) - Not a direct synonym, but can refer to a teapot; use when context involves brewing rather than drinking.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "чашка" is a neutral object noun. (Antonyms are rare for concrete nouns like this.)

Related Phrases:

• Чайная чашка - A teacup specifically; used in formal or descriptive contexts (e.g., in stores or recipes).
• Керамическая чашка - Ceramic teacup; highlights material in discussions about kitchenware.
• Наполнить чашку чаем - To fill the teacup with tea; a common phrase in everyday routines, implying preparation for drinking.

Usage Notes:

"Чашка" directly corresponds to "teacup" in English but is more general, often referring to any small cup. In Russian, it's commonly used in informal settings like homes or cafes, but for formal contexts, pair it with adjectives like "чайная" to specify. Beginners should note that Russian nouns require agreement in gender, number, and case with adjectives and verbs, so always decline "чашка" appropriately. When choosing among translations, use "чашка" for everyday objects and "кружка" if the cup is larger or more mug-like.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using "стакан" (glass) instead of "чашка" for a teacup. Incorrect: Я пью чай из стакана. (This implies a glass, which is typically for cold drinks.) Correct: Я пью чай из чашки. Explanation: "Стакан" refers to a tumbler or glass, not a cup with a handle, leading to confusion in beverage contexts.

• Error: Forgetting to decline the noun in sentences. Incorrect: Я вижу чашка на столе. (Grammatical error; noun should be in accusative case.) Correct: Я вижу чашку на столе. Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, so learners must practice declensions to avoid this common mistake.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, a "чашка" is often associated with tea-drinking traditions, such as using it with a samovar during social gatherings. This reflects the historical importance of tea in Russian daily life, dating back to the 19th century when tea became a staple, symbolizing hospitality and warmth in family settings.

Related Concepts:

• Чай (tea)
• Самовар (samovar)
• Кружка (mug)