Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'viola'

English Word: viola

Key Russian Translations:

• виола [ˈvʲi.o.lə] - [Formal, Used in musical contexts]

Frequency: Medium (Common in discussions about music and instruments, but not everyday conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate level, as it involves basic vocabulary related to arts and requires understanding of noun declensions)

Pronunciation (Russian):

виола: [ˈvʲi.o.lə]

Note on виола: The stress is on the first syllable. The 'в' is pronounced as a voiced labiodental fricative, and the 'и' has a palatalized quality typical in Russian.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Musical instrument (the viola as a string instrument)

Translation(s) & Context:

• виола - Used specifically for the string instrument in orchestral or chamber music settings; formal and technical language.

Usage Examples:

• В оркестре виола играет важную роль в гармонии.

  In the orchestra, the viola plays an important role in harmony.

• Мой брат учит играть на виоле уже третий год.

  My brother has been learning to play the viola for three years now.

• Виола звучит теплее, чем скрипка, в средних регистрах.

  The viola sounds warmer than the violin in the middle registers.

• Во время концерта солистка на виоле исполнила сложный соло.

  During the concert, the soloist on the viola performed a complex solo.

• В школьном ансамбле виола добавляет глубину звучанию.

  In the school ensemble, the viola adds depth to the sound.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Виола" is a feminine noun in Russian, belonging to the first declension. It follows standard patterns for feminine nouns ending in -a. Below is a table of its inflections:

Note: The word is invariant in terms of gender and does not have irregular forms, making it straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • альт (alt) - Often used interchangeably in musical contexts, but "альт" is more common in Russian.
  • струнный инструмент (string instrument) - A broader term for descriptive purposes.
• Antonyms: None directly applicable, as "виола" is a specific instrument. However, contrasting instruments like скрипка (violin) could be considered in musical discussions.

Related Phrases:

• Играть на виоле (Igrat' na violye) - To play the viola; used in contexts of learning or performing music.
• Виола в оркестре (Viola v orkestre) - The viola in the orchestra; refers to its role in ensemble settings.
• Звук виолы (Zvyk violy) - The sound of the viola; often discussed in music theory or appreciation.

Usage Notes:

"Виола" directly corresponds to the English "viola" as a musical instrument and is used in formal, educational, or artistic contexts. It is not commonly used in everyday casual conversation, so learners should note its specialized vocabulary status. When discussing instruments, always use the correct case based on the sentence structure—e.g., accusative for direct objects. If multiple translations exist, "виола" is the most precise; avoid confusing it with "фиалка" (which means violet flower). In Russian, instrument names like this are often feminine, so adjectives and verbs must agree accordingly.

Common Errors:

• English learners often misuse the case endings, such as saying "на виола" instead of the correct "на виоле" (in the dative case for "on the viola"). Correct usage: "Я играю на виоле" (I play on the viola). Explanation: Russian requires prepositional phrases to follow case rules, which English does not.

• Confusing "виола" with "виолончель" (cello), leading to incorrect instrument identification. Error example: "Это виола" when referring to a cello. Correct: "Это виолончель." Explanation: Pay attention to specific vocabulary for string instruments to avoid mix-ups.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, the viola is prominent in classical music traditions, influenced by composers like Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich, who featured it in symphonies. It symbolizes depth and harmony in orchestras, reflecting Russia's rich musical heritage. Unlike in some Western contexts, the viola is not often overshadowed and is celebrated for its unique tonal qualities in performances.

Related Concepts:

• скрипка (violin)
• виолончель (cello)
• контрабас (double bass)