Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'translucent'

English Word: translucent

Key Russian Translations:

• полупрозрачный [pɐlʊprɐˈzraʧnɨj] - [Formal, used in scientific or descriptive contexts]

Frequency: Medium (This adjective is commonly used in technical, artistic, and everyday descriptions but not as ubiquitous as basic vocabulary.)

Difficulty: Intermediate (B1-B2 according to CEFR; requires understanding of Russian adjective forms and vocabulary related to materials and optics.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

полупрозрачный: [pɐlʊprɐˈzraʧnɨj]

Note on полупрозрачный: The stress falls on the third syllable ("zra"), and the "ч" sound is a palatal fricative, which may be challenging for English speakers. Pronunciation can vary slightly in fast speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: Allowing light to pass through but diffusing it, so objects on the other side are not clearly visible (e.g., frosted glass).

Translation(s) & Context:

• полупрозрачный - Used in formal or technical contexts, such as describing materials in architecture, art, or science; contrasts with fully transparent objects.

Usage Examples:

• Окно было сделано из полупрозрачного стекла, чтобы пропускать свет, но скрывать вид.

  The window was made of translucent glass to let in light while obscuring the view.

• Эта ткань полупрозрачная, идеально подходит для летних платьев.

  This fabric is translucent, making it perfect for summer dresses.

• В музее выставлены полупрозрачные кристаллы, которые мерцают под лампами.

  In the museum, translucent crystals are displayed, shimmering under the lights.

• Полупрозрачный пластик используется в экранах для защиты от прямого взгляда.

  Translucent plastic is used in screens to protect against direct viewing.

• Художник выбрал полупрозрачные краски, чтобы создать эффект тумана в пейзаже.

  The artist chose translucent paints to create a misty effect in the landscape.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Полупрозрачный" is an adjective in Russian, which inflects based on gender, number, and case. It follows the standard pattern for adjectives ending in -ый, with short and long forms. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: This adjective does not have irregular forms, but always agree with the noun it modifies in gender, number, and case.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: прозрачный (prozrachnyy; fully transparent, but can be used in similar contexts with nuance) - More general and often interchangeable in non-technical speech.
• Antonyms: непрозрачный (neprozrachnyy; opaque) - Used for materials that block light completely.

Related Phrases:

• полупрозрачный материал - A translucent material; refers to fabrics or plastics that allow diffused light.
• полупрозрачный экран - A translucent screen; commonly used in privacy contexts, like office partitions.
• полупрозрачная пленка - Translucent film; often in photography or packaging to create soft effects.

Usage Notes:

Полупрозрачный is a precise translation for "translucent" in Russian, emphasizing the partial passage of light without full clarity. It is typically used in formal or technical settings, such as science, art, or design, and must agree with the noun it describes in gender, number, and case. For English speakers, note that Russian adjectives like this one do not have a direct equivalent in flexibility—always ensure proper inflection to avoid grammatical errors. If the context involves complete transparency, consider прозрачный instead, but полупрозрачный is preferred for "translucent" to capture the diffusion aspect.

• In spoken Russian, it's common in everyday conversations about objects like windows or clothing.
• When choosing between translations, use полупрозрачный for semi-opacity and avoid overusing it in poetic contexts where more vivid descriptions might be expected.

Common Errors:

English learners often confuse "полупрозрачный" with "прозрачный" (transparent), leading to inaccuracies. For example:

• Error: Using "прозрачный" for a frosted window (e.g., "Окно прозрачное" meaning "The window is transparent").
• Correct: "Окно полупрозрачное" to accurately convey translucency. Explanation: "Прозрачный" implies full visibility, while "полупрозрачный" correctly indicates diffused light, preserving the original English meaning.
• Another Error: Forgetting to inflect the adjective, e.g., saying "полупрозрачный окно" (incorrect gender agreement).
• Correct: "Полупрозрачное окно" for neuter nouns. Always check the noun's gender and case.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, words like "полупрозрачный" are often associated with artistic and architectural elements, such as in Orthodox church windows or modern design, symbolizing mystery or subtlety. This reflects a broader appreciation for light and shadow in Russian literature and visual arts, as seen in works by artists like Kandinsky, where translucency evokes emotional depth.

Related Concepts:

• прозрачный
• непрозрачный
• материал
• светопропускающий