Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'terracotta'

English Word: terracotta

Key Russian Translations:

• терракотта (/tʲɪrraˈkɔta/) - [Borrowed term, used in formal contexts such as art, design, and architecture]

Frequency: Medium (commonly encountered in artistic, historical, or design-related discussions, but not in everyday casual conversation)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1-B2 on CEFR scale; involves recognition of borrowed words and accurate pronunciation, which may challenge beginners)

Pronunciation (Russian):

терракотта: /tʲɪrraˈkɔta/

Note on терракотта: The stress falls on the third syllable ("kɔta"), and the initial "т" is palatalized, which is a common feature in Russian borrowed words. Be mindful of the rolled "r" sound.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary Meaning: A type of reddish-brown clay used in pottery, sculpture, or as a color descriptor

Translation(s) & Context:

• терракотта - Used in formal or artistic contexts to describe the material or color, often in discussions of ancient artifacts or modern design.

Usage Examples:

• Эта ваза сделана из терракотты и имеет древнегреческий стиль.

  This vase is made from terracotta and has an ancient Greek style.

• В интерьере комнаты преобладает терракотта, что создаёт тёплую атмосферу.

  In the room's interior, terracotta predominates, creating a warm atmosphere.

• Художник использовал терракотту для лепки фигур, чтобы имитировать античные скульптуры.

  The artist used terracotta for molding figures to imitate ancient sculptures.

• Цвет стен в кафе — насыщенный терракотта, что делает его уютным.

  The wall color in the cafe is a rich terracotta, making it cozy.

• Терракотта как материал устойчива к погодным условиям, поэтому её часто применяют в уличной скульптуре.

  Terracotta as a material is weather-resistant, so it's often used in outdoor sculpture.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

терракотта is a feminine noun in Russian (borrowed from Italian via English). It follows the standard first declension pattern for feminine nouns ending in -a. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: As a borrowed word, its inflections are regular and do not exhibit irregularities, making it straightforward for learners once the pattern is memorized.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • глиняный (glinyanyy) - More general term for clay-based, but less specific to the reddish-brown shade.
  • охристый (ohristyy) - Refers to a similar earthy color, often used in painting contexts.
• Antonyms:
  • белый (belyy) - White, contrasting with the warm, earthy tone of terracotta.
  • металлический (metallicheskiy) - Metallic, implying a non-earthen material.

Related Phrases:

• терракоттовые изделия (terrakottovyye izdelija) - Terracotta products; refers to items made from this material, often in artisanal contexts.
• цвет терракотта (tsvet terrakotta) - Terracotta color; used in design or fashion to describe the shade.
• античная терракотта (antichnaya terrakotta) - Ancient terracotta; commonly discussed in historical or archaeological settings.

Usage Notes:

Terracotta as a term is directly borrowed into Russian, making it a cognate that English speakers might find intuitive. However, it's primarily used in formal or specialized contexts like art history, interior design, or archaeology, rather than everyday speech. When choosing between translations, opt for "терракотта" in written or professional settings for precision, as alternatives like "глиняный" are more vague. Grammatically, ensure it agrees with adjectives and verbs based on its feminine gender and declension patterns.

• In cultural or artistic discussions, pair it with adjectives like "древний" (ancient) for historical accuracy.
• Avoid using it in casual conversations; instead, English speakers might hear more native Russian terms for colors or materials.

Common Errors:

English learners often mispronounce "терракотта" by stressing the wrong syllable or omitting the palatalized "т", saying something like "терраКОТта" instead of "терраКОТта" with correct stress. Correct usage: Always stress the third syllable and use the full form. Another error is confusing it with "керамика" (keramika), which is broader; for example, incorrectly saying "эта керамика терракотта" when it should be "эта ваза из терракотты" to specify the material.

• Error: "Я видел терракотта в музее" (incorrect declension).
  Correct: "Я видел терракотту в музее" (accusative case for direct object).
  Explanation: Russian requires proper case agreement, which English speakers might overlook.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, terracotta is often associated with ancient civilizations, such as Greek or Roman artifacts, which are frequently studied in Russian art history. It symbolizes warmth and earthiness, and is commonly featured in museums like the Hermitage, reflecting Russia's appreciation for classical antiquity. This connection adds a layer of historical depth, making it more than just a color—it's a nod to enduring artistic traditions.

Related Concepts:

• керамика (keramika)
• глина (glina)
• античное искусство (antichnoye iskusstvo)