Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'turmeric'

English Word: turmeric

Key Russian Translations:

• куркума (/ˈkʊrkʊmə/) - [Formal, Used in general contexts such as cooking and medicine]

Frequency: Medium (Common in culinary discussions, recipes, and health-related topics, but not everyday casual conversation)

Difficulty: A2 (Beginner; Straightforward vocabulary for learners familiar with basic nouns, with regular inflections)

Pronunciation (Russian):

куркума: /ˈkʊrkʊmə/

Note on куркума: The stress is on the first syllable (/ˈkʊr-/). Pronunciation may vary slightly in regional dialects, but this is the standard form. Pay attention to the rolled 'r' sound, which is common in Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Primary meaning: A bright yellow spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, used in cooking, medicine, and dyes.

Translation(s) & Context:

• куркума - Used in formal and informal contexts, especially in recipes, health discussions, or descriptions of Indian and Asian cuisine.

Usage Examples:

• В суп добавляют куркуму для яркого цвета и вкуса.

  In the soup, turmeric is added for a bright color and flavor. (This example shows the noun in a simple declarative sentence, common in cooking instructions.)

• Куркума часто используется в индийской кухне как специя.

  Turmeric is often used in Indian cuisine as a spice. (Demonstrates the noun in a general statement about cultural usage.)

• Для лечения воспалений врачи рекомендуют куркуму в натуральном виде.

  For treating inflammations, doctors recommend turmeric in its natural form. (Illustrates usage in a medical context, highlighting its health benefits.)

• В рецепте чая куркума сочетается с имбирем и мёдом.

  In the tea recipe, turmeric is combined with ginger and honey. (Shows the noun in a compound phrase, emphasizing common pairings in recipes.)

• Куркума придаёт блюдам не только цвет, но и антиоксидантные свойства.

  Turmeric gives dishes not only color but also antioxidant properties. (This example varies the structure to include additional attributes, useful for advanced contexts.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"куркума" is a feminine noun in the first declension (first conjugation for nouns). It follows regular patterns for Russian nouns, with changes based on case and number. Below is a table outlining its key inflections:

Note: The plural forms are less commonly used, as "куркума" typically refers to the spice in singular contexts. It does not have irregular inflections, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • имбирь (ginger) - Sometimes used in similar health contexts, but not exact; implies a milder spice.
  • шафран (saffron) - A yellow spice alternative, often in culinary settings, but with different flavors.
• Antonyms:
  • None directly applicable, as "куркума" is a specific spice without a clear opposite. However, in contrast, "соль" (salt) could be seen as a basic seasoning without the same health properties.

Related Phrases:

• Куркума в индийской кухне - Turmeric in Indian cuisine (Refers to its cultural role in traditional dishes).
• Золотое молоко с куркумой - Golden milk with turmeric (A popular health drink, highlighting medicinal uses).
• Куркума как антиоксидант - Turmeric as an antioxidant (Used in health and wellness discussions).

Usage Notes:

Turmeric translates directly to "куркума" in Russian and is most commonly used in contexts related to food, medicine, or natural remedies. It is a neutral, everyday word without strong formal or informal restrictions, but it's more frequent in written recipes or health articles than spoken language. When choosing between translations, "куркума" is the standard and most accurate; avoid synonyms like "шафран" unless the context specifically involves saffron. Grammatically, remember that as a feminine noun, it requires agreement in gender, number, and case with adjectives or verbs (e.g., "свежая куркума" for "fresh turmeric"). In bilingual settings, English speakers might confuse it with "curry," but in Russian, it's distinct.

Common Errors:

• Error: Mispronouncing as "куркум" without the final vowel. Correct: Use the full "куркума" with proper stress on the first syllable. Explanation: This omission can make the word sound incomplete and lead to confusion with unrelated terms.

• Error: Using in the wrong case, e.g., saying "Я ем куркума" instead of "Я ем куркуму" (Accusative case). Correct: "Я ем куркуму." Explanation: Russian requires case agreement for direct objects, so learners must adjust based on sentence structure.

• Error: Confusing with "имбирь" (ginger) in recipes. Correct: Specify "куркума" for turmeric to avoid mixing up ingredients. Explanation: Both are spices, but they have different flavors and uses, leading to inaccurate translations in cooking contexts.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "куркума" is often associated with borrowed elements from Indian and Asian cuisines, reflecting global influences in modern Russian cooking. It's not native to Russian traditions but has gained popularity in health trends, such as in "golden milk" recipes, which draw from Ayurvedic practices. This highlights Russia's openness to international flavors, especially in urban areas, where it symbolizes wellness and exoticism.

Related Concepts:

• имбирь (ginger)
• шафран (saffron)
• корица (cinnamon)
• карри (curry)