Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'thimble'

English Word: thimble

Key Russian Translations:

• наперсток [napʲɪrstɐk] - [Formal, Singular; used in everyday contexts related to sewing]

Frequency: Low (This word is not commonly used in everyday Russian conversation but appears in contexts involving sewing, crafts, or historical discussions.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1 level; learners need familiarity with basic noun declensions and vocabulary related to tools, but it's straightforward for those with an interest in practical or cultural topics.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

наперсток: [napʲɪrstɐk]

Note on наперсток: The pronunciation involves a palatalized 'p' sound (ʲ), which can be challenging for English speakers. Stress falls on the second syllable. Variations may occur in regional dialects, but standard Russian uses this IPA.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The protective cap worn on the finger during sewing to push the needle.

Translation(s) & Context:

• наперсток - Typically used in formal or practical contexts like sewing, crafting, or historical descriptions; it refers specifically to the metal or plastic cap for the finger.

Usage Examples:

• Я всегда ношу наперсток, когда шью, чтобы защитить палец от уколов.

  I always wear a thimble when sewing to protect my finger from pricks.

• В старых русских домах наперсток был неотъемлемой частью швейного набора.

  In old Russian households, a thimble was an essential part of the sewing kit.

• Дети в мастерской учились пользоваться наперстком для точной работы с тканью.

  Children in the workshop learned to use a thimble for precise work with fabric.

• Без наперстка шитье может быть опасным, особенно с острыми иглами.

  Without a thimble, sewing can be dangerous, especially with sharp needles.

• Современные наперстки из пластика заменяют традиционные металлические в быту.

  Modern plastic thimbles are replacing traditional metal ones in everyday use.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Наперсток" is a masculine noun in the third declension. It follows standard Russian noun inflection patterns for masculine nouns ending in a consonant. Below is a table outlining its key forms:

Note: The word is regular in its declension, with no irregularities, making it relatively easy for learners to master.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: пальцевый колпачок (palʲt͡sɛvɨj kɐlpaʧok) - Less common, used in technical or modern contexts; it emphasizes the finger-cover aspect.
• Antonyms: Not applicable, as this is a specific tool without direct opposites.

Related Phrases:

• Шить с наперстком - To sew with a thimble; a common phrase in crafting instructions, implying safe and precise sewing.
• Наперсток для рукоделия - Thimble for handicrafts; used in contexts discussing traditional arts or hobbies.
• Традиционный наперсток - Traditional thimble; often refers to historical or cultural sewing practices in Russia.

Usage Notes:

The Russian word "наперсток" directly corresponds to the English "thimble" in its primary meaning, focusing on its role in sewing. It is most commonly used in formal or descriptive contexts, such as instructions, historical texts, or educational materials. English learners should note that Russian nouns like this one must agree in case, number, and gender with other words in the sentence—for example, always use the appropriate declension when pairing with verbs or prepositions. If multiple translations exist, "наперсток" is the standard choice for general use, but "пальцевый колпачок" might be preferred in technical settings. Be mindful of cultural contexts where sewing tools hold historical significance in Russian folklore.

Common Errors:

• Mistaking the declension: English learners often forget to change the ending, e.g., saying "Я имею наперсток" instead of the correct genitive "Я имею наперсток" in certain constructions. Correct: Use "наперстка" in genitive contexts, like "без наперстка" (without a thimble).
• Incorrect pronunciation: Common error is pronouncing it as [na-per-stok] without the palatalization, which can make it sound unnatural. Explanation: Practice the 'ʲ' sound as in "news" in English to avoid confusion.
• Overgeneralizing: Learners might use it interchangeably with general tools, but it's specific to finger protection. Error example: "Я использую наперсток для еды" (wrong); Correct: This word is for sewing, not eating utensils.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the thimble ("наперсток") symbolizes practicality and tradition in household crafts. It appears in folklore and literature, such as in stories about seamstresses or in references to 19th-century domestic life, where sewing was a common skill. While not as culturally iconic as other tools, it evokes images of rural life and handmade goods in pre-industrial Russia.

Related Concepts:

• игла (needle)
• нитка (thread)
• швейная машина (sewing machine)