Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'walnut'

English Word: walnut

Key Russian Translations:

• грецкий орех [ɡrʲɛts.kʲɪj ˈorʲɪx] - [Formal, Common noun for the specific type of nut]

Frequency: Medium (commonly used in everyday language related to food, cooking, and agriculture, but not as ubiquitous as basic words like "apple").

Difficulty: A2 (Elementary level; straightforward for beginners once basic noun vocabulary is learned, as it follows standard Russian noun patterns).

Pronunciation (Russian):

грецкий орех: [ɡrʲɛts.kʲɪj ˈorʲɪx]

Note on грецкий орех: The stress falls on the second syllable of "орех" (ˈorʲɪx). Be mindful of the soft sign (ь) in "грецкий," which softens the preceding consonant, making it a common pronunciation challenge for English speakers. Palatalization is key here.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The edible seed of a walnut tree (primary meaning).

Translation(s) & Context:

• грецкий орех - Used in general contexts for referring to the walnut nut in culinary, botanical, or everyday discussions; appropriate in both formal and informal settings, especially when specifying the type of nut.

Usage Examples:

• Я ем грецкий орех каждый день для поддержания здоровья.

  I eat walnuts every day to maintain my health. (This example shows the noun in a daily routine context, emphasizing health benefits.)

• В салате добавьте грецкий орех для хрустящей текстуры.

  Add walnuts to the salad for a crunchy texture. (Demonstrates use in a recipe or cooking scenario, highlighting its role as an ingredient.)

• Грецкий орех растет в нашем саду и дает обильный урожай.

  The walnut tree in our garden produces a bountiful harvest. (Illustrates the noun in a botanical or agricultural context, showing possession and quantity.)

• Купите свежий грецкий орех на рынке; он вкуснее, чем в магазине.

  Buy fresh walnuts at the market; they're tastier than in the store. (This shows comparative usage in shopping or preference discussions.)

• Дети собирают грецкий орех осенью, чтобы сделать запасы на зиму.

  Children gather walnuts in the autumn to stock up for winter. (Exemplifies seasonal and cultural practices involving the nut.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Грецкий орех is a masculine noun in Russian, following the standard declension patterns for nouns ending in a consonant. It is a compound noun and inflects based on case, number, and gender rules. The word "орех" (nut) is the core inflecting part, while "грецкий" (walnut, as in Greek or Persian walnut) is an adjective that agrees with it.

Note: The adjective "грецкий" changes to agree with the noun in gender, number, and case, which is a regular pattern in Russian. This noun does not have irregular inflections.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: волошский орех (another regional term for walnut, often used in specific dialects or contexts); орех (general term for nut, but less specific).
• Лиственная орех (leafy nut, a less common synonym emphasizing botanical features).
• Antonyms: Not directly applicable, as this is a specific noun; however, in food contexts, one might contrast with "миндаль" (almond) for variety.

Explanation: "Волошский орех" is a synonym with a regional nuance, often referring to the same walnut in Eastern European contexts, while "орех" is broader and may imply any nut type.

Related Phrases:

• Грецкий орех в шоколаде - Walnuts in chocolate (a popular snack or dessert item, often enjoyed during holidays).
• Масло из грецкого ореха - Walnut oil (used in cooking or as a health supplement, highlighting its culinary applications).
• Дерево грецкого ореха - Walnut tree (refers to the plant itself, common in gardening or forestry discussions).

Usage Notes:

In Russian, "грецкий орех" directly corresponds to the English "walnut" and is the most precise translation for both the nut and the tree. It is versatile across formal and informal contexts, such as recipes, health talks, or everyday conversations. English speakers should note that Russian nouns require agreement in case, number, and gender; for example, use the genitive case in phrases like "пирожное с грецким орехом" (cake with walnut). When choosing among translations, prefer "грецкий орех" over general "орех" to avoid ambiguity. Grammatically, it's a masculine noun, so adjectives and verbs must align accordingly.

• Context tip: In culinary settings, it's often pluralized as "грецкие орехи" for multiple items.
• Regional variation: In some areas, "волошский орех" might be used interchangeably, but "грецкий орех" is more universally understood.

Common Errors:

English learners often misuse the case endings, such as saying "с грецкий орех" instead of the correct genitive "с грецким орехом" (with walnut). Incorrect: "Я ем грецкий орехом" (wrong case). Correct: "Я ем грецкий орех" (nominative for direct object). This error stems from English's lack of cases; always check the required case based on the preposition or sentence structure to ensure proper agreement.

• Another common mistake: Confusing it with "фундук" (hazelnut) due to similar nut types; remember, "грецкий орех" specifically means walnut, not a generic nut.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, walnuts ("грецкий орех") hold symbolic value in folklore and traditions, often associated with wisdom and longevity due to their brain-like shape. They are a staple in Slavic harvest festivals, where gathering and sharing walnuts signifies abundance and community. Historically, walnuts were introduced via trade routes from Persia, influencing their name ("грецкий" means "Greek"), which reflects cultural exchanges in the region.

Related Concepts:

• Миндаль (almond)
• Фундук (hazelnut)
• Дуб (oak, as walnuts are sometimes grown in similar forested areas)