Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'thoroughly'

English Word: thoroughly

Key Russian Translations:

• тщательно [ˈtɕːætʲɪlʲnə] - [Formal, Adverbial use in detailed or professional contexts]
• досконально [dɐsˈkonːəlʲnə] - [Formal, Emphasizing exhaustive detail, often in academic or investigative scenarios]

Frequency: Medium (This adverb is commonly used in written and spoken Russian, especially in professional, educational, and technical contexts, but not as ubiquitous as basic everyday words.)

Difficulty: B2 (Intermediate; Learners at this level should grasp its usage, but the pronunciation of sounds like 'щ' may pose challenges for non-native speakers. For 'досконально', it remains B2 due to similar complexity.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

тщательно: [ˈtɕːætʲɪlʲnə]

Note on тщательно: The 'щ' sound is a voiceless palatal fricative, similar to the 'sh' in 'she' but more constricted and palatalized; stress falls on the first syllable, which is common in Russian adverbs.

досконально: [dɐsˈkonːəlʲnə]

Note on досконально: The 'о' in the second syllable is reduced in casual speech, which is a typical feature of Russian unstressed vowels; pay attention to the double 'н' for proper emphasis.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: In a thorough, detailed, or exhaustive manner (e.g., performing a task completely and carefully)

Translation(s) & Context:

• тщательно - Used in formal or professional settings, such as describing meticulous work or examinations, to convey careful attention to detail.
• досконально - Applied in contexts requiring in-depth analysis, like research or investigations, where completeness is emphasized.

Usage Examples:

• Он тщательно проверил все документы перед отправкой.

  He thoroughly checked all the documents before sending them. (This example shows the adverb modifying a verb in a professional context.)

• Учёные досконально изучили древние артефакты.

  The scientists thoroughly studied the ancient artifacts. (Illustrates use in an academic setting, emphasizing exhaustive examination.)

• Она тщательно готовится к экзамену, повторяя каждый раздел.

  She is thoroughly preparing for the exam by reviewing each section. (Demonstrates habitual or ongoing action with careful detail.)

• Команда досконально анализирует данные для точных результатов.

  The team is thoroughly analyzing the data for accurate results. (Highlights use in technical or scientific contexts.)

• Врач тщательно осмотрел пациента, не упустив ни одной детали.

  The doctor thoroughly examined the patient, not missing a single detail. (Shows application in medical or precise observational scenarios.)

Meaning 2: Completely or without omission (e.g., in a comprehensive way)

Translation(s) & Context:

• тщательно - Often used when stressing completeness in everyday tasks, but still in more formal language.
• досконально - Preferred for contexts implying no gaps, such as in legal or investigative work.

Usage Examples:

• Повар тщательно перемешал ингредиенты для идеального блюда.

  The cook thoroughly mixed the ingredients for the perfect dish. (Example in a creative or practical context.)

• Инспектор досконально проверил здание на предмет безопасности.

  The inspector thoroughly checked the building for safety. (Illustrates formal inspection processes.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both 'тщательно' and 'досконально' are adverbs in Russian, which typically do not inflect for case, number, or gender. They remain unchanged regardless of the context, making them straightforward for learners. However, their usage can vary based on the verb they modify.

For completeness, here's a simple table outlining any potential variations if used in derived forms (though rare for these adverbs):

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • внимательно (vnimatel'no) - More focused on attention; subtle difference in emphasizing watchfulness over completeness.
  • детально (detal'no) - Stresses detail-oriented approach, often used interchangeably in descriptive contexts.
• Antonyms:
  • поверхностно (poverkhnostno) - Implies a superficial or shallow manner.
  • небрежно (nebrezhno) - Suggests carelessness or haste.

Related Phrases:

• тщательно проверить - To check thoroughly; Meaning: Used in quality control or verification processes to ensure no details are overlooked.
• досконально изучить - To study thoroughly; Meaning: Common in educational or research contexts, implying comprehensive analysis.
• тщательно подготовить - To prepare thoroughly; Meaning: Often applied to events or presentations requiring meticulous planning.

Usage Notes:

Тщательно directly corresponds to the English 'thoroughly' in formal contexts, often modifying verbs to indicate careful execution. It is preferred in written Russian or professional speech, while 'досконально' adds a nuance of exhaustive depth, making it suitable for academic or investigative scenarios. Be mindful of word order in Russian sentences; adverbs like these typically precede the verb they modify. When choosing between translations, opt for 'тщательно' for everyday thoroughness and 'досконально' for more intensive completeness. Grammar-wise, these adverbs do not change form, simplifying their use, but ensure they align with the sentence's overall formality.

Common Errors:

• Confusing 'тщательно' with 'быстро' (quickly): Learners might misuse 'быстро' when meaning 'thoroughly', leading to sentences like "Он быстро проверил документы" (He quickly checked the documents), which implies speed rather than care. Correct usage: "Он тщательно проверил документы" to emphasize detail.

• Overusing in informal contexts: Non-natives often place 'тщательно' in casual speech where simpler words like 'хорошо' (well) suffice, e.g., incorrectly saying "Я тщательно поел" instead of "Я хорошо поел." Explanation: Reserve it for situations requiring precision to avoid sounding overly formal.

Cultural Notes:

Words like 'тщательно' and 'досконально' reflect Russian cultural emphasis on meticulousness and precision, often seen in fields like engineering, science, and bureaucracy. This stems from historical influences, such as the Soviet era's focus on thorough planning, which can make Russian communication appear more detailed compared to English in professional settings.

Related Concepts:

• внимание (attention)
• точность (accuracy)
• анализ (analysis)