Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'thermos'

English Word: thermos

Key Russian Translations:

• термос /ˈtɛrmɐs/ - [Formal, Common noun]

Frequency: Medium (This word is commonly used in everyday contexts related to outdoor activities, travel, and household items, but not as ubiquitous as basic vocabulary like "вода" (water).)

Difficulty: A2 (Elementary level in CEFR; straightforward for beginners to learn and use, as it is a loanword with minimal inflection.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

термос: /ˈtɛrmɐs/

Note on термос: The stress is on the first syllable (/ˈtɛr-/). Pronunciation is relatively easy for English speakers due to its similarity to the English word, but be mindful of the rolled 'r' sound in Russian, which may vary by dialect.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: A vacuum flask or insulated container used to keep liquids hot or cold.

Translation(s) & Context:

• термос - Used in general contexts for a portable insulated bottle, such as for tea, coffee, or soup during outings or work. This is the standard translation and fits formal and informal settings.

Usage Examples:

• Я всегда беру термос с горячим кофе на работу.

  I always take a thermos with hot coffee to work. (This example shows the noun in a daily routine context, emphasizing portability.)

• В походе термос сохранил чай теплым целый день.

  In the hike, the thermos kept the tea warm all day. (Illustrates the insulating function in an outdoor setting.)

• Мама приготовила суп в термосе для пикника.

  Mom prepared soup in the thermos for the picnic. (Demonstrates use in family or casual scenarios.)

• Термос — незаменимый предмет для путешественников в холодную погоду.

  A thermos is an indispensable item for travelers in cold weather. (Shows the word in a broader descriptive sentence.)

• Купи термос, чтобы сохранить напитки холодными летом.

  Buy a thermos to keep drinks cold in the summer. (Highlights versatility for both hot and cold liquids.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Термос" is a masculine noun (мужской род) borrowed from English/German, belonging to the second declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns but is invariable in plural forms in modern usage, as it often refers to a single item. Below is a table of its declensions:

Note: While "термос" can form a plural, it is often used in singular form due to its nature as a countable item. No irregular inflections apply.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • фляга (flask) - More general term, often for smaller containers; used in military or hiking contexts.
  • термокружка (thermo mug) - Similar but implies a mug shape; preferred for daily use.
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as "термос" is a specific object without a clear opposite. However, related concepts might include non-insulated containers like "стакан" (glass), which do not retain temperature.

Related Phrases:

• горячий термос (hot thermos) - Refers to a thermos containing hot liquids; used in contexts like winter outings.
• термос с чаем (thermos with tea) - A common phrase for packed beverages; implies preparation for travel.
• наполнить термос (to fill the thermos) - Describes the action of preparing the container; often in instructional or narrative contexts.

Usage Notes:

"Термос" directly corresponds to the English "thermos" as a loanword, making it an easy match for English learners. It is neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both everyday conversations and written texts. Be aware of its declension in sentences, such as using the genitive case after prepositions (e.g., "в термосе" for "in the thermos"). When multiple translations exist, choose "термос" for precise matches; alternatives like "фляга" may imply a less insulated container. Grammatically, it functions as a standard masculine noun, so ensure agreement in gender and case with adjectives or verbs.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as /tɛr'mos/ with stress on the second syllable, which is incorrect in Russian.

  Correct: Use /ˈtɛrmɐs/ with stress on the first syllable. Example of error: Saying "тер-МОС" instead of "ТЕР-мос". This happens because English speakers may default to English stress patterns.

• Error: Forgetting to decline the noun in sentences, e.g., saying "в термос" instead of "в термосе" for "in the thermos".

  Correct: Always adjust for case; incorrect: "Я пью из термос" (should be "из термоса"). Explanation: Russian requires case agreement, which English learners often overlook.

Cultural Notes:

"Термос" is a practical item in Russian culture, especially in regions with harsh winters, where it is commonly used for maintaining warmth during long trips or outdoor activities like fishing or hiking. It reflects the cultural emphasis on preparedness and endurance in adverse weather, stemming from historical influences like Soviet-era outdoor traditions.

Related Concepts:

• фляга
• термокружка
• холодильник