Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'toothbrush'

English Word: toothbrush

Key Russian Translations:

• зубная щётка /ˈzubnəjə ˈɕɵtkə/ - [Formal, Standard usage in everyday contexts]

Frequency: High (This word is commonly used in daily conversations related to personal hygiene and is encountered frequently in Russian media and literature.)

Difficulty: A1 (Beginner; The word is straightforward for English learners of Russian, as it follows basic noun patterns and is part of everyday vocabulary.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

зубная щётка: /ˈzubnəjə ˈɕɵtkə/

Note on зубная щётка: The "щ" sound (/ɕ/) is a soft, palatalized "sh" sound, which can be challenging for beginners. Pronounce it like "sh" in "she" but with more tongue contact on the palate. Variations in regional accents may soften the vowels slightly.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The object used for cleaning teeth.

Translation(s) & Context:

• зубная щётка - Used in everyday contexts for personal hygiene, such as in conversations about daily routines or shopping for bathroom essentials.

Usage Examples:

• Я чищу зубы своей зубной щёткой каждое утро.

  I brush my teeth with my toothbrush every morning. (This example shows the word in a simple daily routine context.)

• Не забудь купить новую зубную щётку в магазине.

  Don't forget to buy a new toothbrush at the store. (Illustrates the word in a shopping or reminder scenario.)

• Дети должны использовать мягкую зубную щётку, чтобы не повредить десны.

  Children should use a soft toothbrush to avoid damaging their gums. (Demonstrates the word with an adjective for specification in health-related advice.)

• В моей ванной комнате есть электрическая зубная щётка.

  In my bathroom, there is an electric toothbrush. (Shows the word in a compound form, highlighting modern variations.)

• Зубная щётка – это необходимый предмет в сумке путешественника.

  A toothbrush is an essential item in a traveler's bag. (Used in a broader context of necessities and travel.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"зубная щётка" is a feminine noun in Russian. It follows the first declension pattern for feminine nouns ending in -а. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The word is regular in its declension, with no irregular forms. Always adjust for gender, number, and case based on sentence structure.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • щётка для зубов (less common, but used in formal or technical contexts; implies the same object but with a more descriptive phrase)
  • зубной ершик (occasionally used for a smaller or specialized brush, with a slight difference in connotation for interdental brushes)
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as this is a specific object. However, related opposites might include "грязь" (dirt) in the context of hygiene.

Related Phrases:

• электрическая зубная щётка - Electric toothbrush; Refers to a modern, battery-powered version used for efficient cleaning.
• сменная головка зубной щётки - Replacement head for a toothbrush; Common in discussions about maintaining oral hygiene tools.
• зубная щётка и паста - Toothbrush and toothpaste; A fixed phrase for essential dental care items.

Usage Notes:

The Russian translation "зубная щётка" directly corresponds to the English "toothbrush" and is the most precise and common term. It is neutral in tone and suitable for all contexts, from informal daily talk to formal writing. Be mindful of Russian noun declensions: always match the case with the sentence (e.g., use genitive for possession). If multiple translations exist, choose "зубная щётка" for standard situations; opt for synonyms like "щётка для зубов" in professional or medical contexts. English learners should note that Russian often specifies attributes explicitly, so phrases like "электрическая зубная щётка" are common.

Common Errors:

• Mistake: Using the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я потерял зубная щётка" instead of "Я потерял зубную щётку" (accusative case required after verbs like "потерял").
  Correct: Я потерял зубную щётку. Explanation: Russian requires nouns to agree in case with the verb's object; this error stems from English's lack of cases.
• Mistake: Confusing it with "волосная щётка" (hairbrush), leading to mix-ups in vocabulary.
  Correct: Always specify "зубная" to denote it's for teeth. Explanation: Adding the adjective "зубная" clarifies the type, which is essential in Russian to avoid ambiguity.
• Mistake: Omitting the adjective in compounds, e.g., just saying "щётка" without context.
  Correct: Use "зубная щётка" for precision. Explanation: In Russian, standalone "щётка" could mean any brush, so this word pair ensures clarity in communication.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, oral hygiene is emphasized in daily routines, often linked to health campaigns. The term "зубная щётка" doesn't carry unique cultural connotations but reflects the universal importance of dental care. However, in some rural or traditional contexts, homemade brushes might be referenced in folklore, highlighting resourcefulness in hygiene practices.

Related Concepts:

• зубная паста (toothpaste)
• зубная нить (dental floss)
• стоматолог (dentist)