Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'then'

English Word: then

Key Russian Translations:

• тогда [ˈtoɡ.də] - [Formal/Informal, Used in time-related contexts or conditions]
• затем [zəˈtʲem] - [Formal, Used for sequences or subsequent actions]

Frequency: High for "тогда" (commonly used in everyday conversation and writing); Medium for "затем" (more common in formal or written contexts).

Difficulty: A1 for "тогда" (beginner level, as it's a basic adverb); A2 for "затем" (elementary level, slightly more context-dependent).

Pronunciation (Russian):

тогда: [ˈtoɡ.də]

затем: [zəˈtʲem]

Note on тогда: The stress is on the first syllable; be careful with the soft "г" sound, which can be challenging for English speakers. Pronounce it with a clear "o" as in "go".

Note on затем: The "з" is voiced, and the "тʲ" indicates a palatalized "t", common in Russian; it sounds softer than in English.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: Referring to a specific time in the past, future, or as a result of a condition (e.g., "at that time" or "in that case").

Translation(s) & Context:

• "тогда" - Used in narratives, conditional sentences, or to indicate a point in time; common in both spoken and written Russian.

Usage Examples:

• Если ты приедешь рано, тогда мы пойдём в парк.

  If you arrive early, then we will go to the park.

• Тогда я был студентом и не имел много денег.

  Then I was a student and didn't have much money.

• Тогда, в детстве, всё казалось проще.

  Then, in childhood, everything seemed simpler.

• Если не получится, тогда попробуй другой способ.

  If it doesn't work, then try another way.

Meaning 2: Indicating sequence or what follows next (e.g., "next" or "after that").

Translation(s) & Context:

• "затем" - Used in procedural descriptions, lists, or formal writing to show progression; less common in casual speech.

Usage Examples:

• Сначала мы поедим, затем пойдём на прогулку.

  First, we will eat, then we will go for a walk.

• Затем он объяснил свой план коллегам.

  Then he explained his plan to his colleagues.

• После встречи затем обсудим детали.

  After the meeting, then we will discuss the details.

• Затем, как обычно, мы вернёмся домой.

  Then, as usual, we will return home.

• Выполни шаг один, затем переходи к шагу два.

  Complete step one, then move to step two.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both "тогда" and "затем" are adverbs in Russian and do not undergo typical inflections like nouns or adjectives. They remain unchanged across cases, numbers, or genders, which makes them straightforward for learners. However, their usage can vary based on context:

• For "тогда": It is invariant and can be used in any sentence type without modification.
• For "затем": Similarly invariant, but it often appears in sequences where word order emphasizes progression.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • тогда: после (posle) - meaning "after", often used interchangeably in time contexts but more specific to sequence.
  • затем: потом (potom) - meaning "later" or "then", with a slight informal nuance.
• Antonyms:
  • тогда: теперь (teper') - meaning "now".
  • затем: прежде (preezhye) - meaning "before".

Related Phrases:

• Тогда как (togda kak) - Meaning: "whereas" or "while", used to contrast ideas.
• Затем что (zatem chto) - Meaning: "because of that" or "therefore", though less common; it implies causation.
• Сначала... затем... (snachala... zatem...) - Meaning: "First... then...", a common structure for sequencing events.

Usage Notes:

"Тогда" is the most direct equivalent to "then" in time or conditional contexts and is versatile for English speakers. Use it when referring to a specific point in time or as a logical connector. "Затем" is better for sequential actions and is more formal, so choose it in professional or written settings. Be mindful of word order in Russian sentences, as adverbs like these often appear at the beginning or end for emphasis. If the English "then" implies consequence, "тогда" works well, but always consider the context to avoid ambiguity between the two translations.

Common Errors:

• Error: Confusing "тогда" and "затем" by using "тогда" for sequences. Incorrect: "Сначала еда, тогда прогулка." (This sounds awkward.)

  Correct: "Сначала еда, затем прогулка." Explanation: "Затем" specifically denotes sequence, while "тогда" is for time-based conditions. English learners often mix them due to similar meanings in English.

• Error: Overusing "тогда" in formal writing where "затем" is preferred. Incorrect: "Затем, мы обсудим это." (If meant as sequence.)

  Correct: Use "затем" for progression. Explanation: This can make the text feel less polished; pay attention to register.

Cultural Notes:

Words like "тогда" and "затем" don't carry strong cultural connotations, but they are essential in Russian storytelling and literature, where reflecting on the past (e.g., in historical contexts) is common. In Russian culture, time-related expressions often emphasize reflection or fate, as seen in classic works by authors like Tolstoy, where "тогда" might evoke a sense of inevitability.

Related Concepts:

• теперь (teper')
• после (posle)
• потом (potom)
• прежде (preezhye)