Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'unisex'

English Word: unisex

Key Russian Translations:

• унисекс [ʊˈni.sɛks] - [Informal, Loanword, Used in modern contexts like fashion and products]

Frequency: Medium (Common in contemporary Russian, especially in urban and fashion-related discussions, but not as frequent as basic vocabulary)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate, per CEFR; as a loanword, it requires familiarity with borrowed English terms, but it's straightforward for learners with basic vocabulary)

Pronunciation (Russian):

унисекс: [ʊˈni.sɛks]

Note on унисекс: The stress is on the second syllable ('ni'). Pronunciation may vary slightly by region, with a softer 's' sound in some dialects, but the standard is as above.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: Gender-neutral, applicable to both sexes, often used for clothing, products, or spaces designed for men and women.

Translation(s) & Context:

• унисекс - Used in informal or modern contexts, such as describing clothing or facilities that are not gender-specific.

Usage Examples:

• Эта футболка унисекс, так что подойдёт и для мужчин, и для женщин.

  This T-shirt is unisex, so it suits both men and women.

• В этом магазине есть отдел унисекс для обуви.

  In this store, there's a unisex section for shoes.

• Унисекс парфюм становится всё популярнее в современном мире.

  Unisex perfume is becoming more popular in the modern world.

• Туалет в аэропорту унисекс, что удобно для семей с детьми.

  The bathroom in the airport is unisex, which is convenient for families with children.

• Дизайнеры часто создают унисекс коллекции для показа мод.

  Designers often create unisex collections for fashion shows.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

As a borrowed adjective/noun from English, 'унисекс' is typically invariant and does not undergo regular Russian inflections. It remains the same in most cases, which is common for modern loanwords.

However, if used in a nominal sense, it can be treated as an indeclinable adjective:

Note: Unlike traditional Russian adjectives, it does not agree in gender, number, or case, making it simpler for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • нейтральный (neutral) - Often used in more formal or general contexts, implying balance rather than specific gender applicability.
  • универсальный (universal) - Emphasizes broad applicability, with a slight nuance towards functionality over gender.
• Antonyms:
  • мужской (male) - Directly opposite, used for items or contexts exclusive to men.
  • женский (female) - Directly opposite, used for items or contexts exclusive to women.

Related Phrases:

• унисекс туалет - A bathroom designed for both genders; commonly found in public spaces for inclusivity.
• унисекс парфюм - Perfume that is not gender-specific; reflects modern trends in fragrance design.
• унисекс мода - Fashion styles that blend elements for all genders; often associated with contemporary trends.

Usage Notes:

'Унисекс' is a direct loanword from English and is primarily used in informal, modern Russian contexts, such as fashion, retail, or social discussions. It corresponds closely to the English 'unisex' but may carry a connotation of Western influence in Russian culture. When choosing between translations, opt for 'унисекс' in casual settings; for more formal writing, 'нейтральный' might be preferable. Grammatically, it functions as an indeclinable adjective, so no changes are needed for gender, number, or case. Be mindful of context: it's more common in urban areas and among younger speakers.

Common Errors:

• Error: Treating 'унисекс' as a fully inflectable Russian word, e.g., incorrectly saying 'унисексовый' to make it agree with a noun.

  Correct: Use it invariantly, e.g., 'унисекс рубашка' (not 'унисексовую рубашку').

  Explanation: Russian loanwords like this don't follow standard inflection rules, so forcing changes can sound unnatural to native speakers.

• Error: Confusing it with 'универсальный', assuming they mean the same thing.

  Correct: 'Унисекс' specifically implies gender neutrality, while 'универсальный' means 'universal' in a broader sense (e.g., applicable to all situations, not just gender).

  Explanation: This mix-up can lead to imprecise communication; always consider the context to choose the right word.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, 'унисекс' reflects growing influences from global trends, particularly in fashion and gender equality discussions. However, traditional Russian society often emphasizes distinct gender roles, so the concept may be more embraced in urban, progressive circles like Moscow or St. Petersburg. It symbolizes modernization and inclusivity, but its use can sometimes highlight cultural shifts away from conservative norms.

Related Concepts:

• гендер (gender)
• нейтральность (neutrality)
• универсальность (universality)