Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'waterproof'

English Word: waterproof

Key Russian Translations:

• водонепроницаемый [/vədənʲɪprəˈnʲit͡səmɨj/] - [Formal, Technical]
• непромокаемый [/nʲɪprəməˈkaɛmɨj/] - [Informal, Everyday use]

Frequency: Medium (Common in technical, outdoor, and product-related contexts, but not in everyday casual conversation)

Difficulty: B1 (Intermediate; requires understanding of Russian adjective inflections and compound words; for 'водонепроницаемый', it's more challenging due to length, while 'непромокаемый' is slightly easier)

Pronunciation (Russian):

водонепроницаемый: /vədənʲɪprəˈnʲit͡səmɨj/

непромокаемый: /nʲɪprəməˈkaɛmɨj/

Note on водонепроницаемый: This word has a complex structure with emphasis on the third syllable; be cautious of the soft 'н' sound, which can be tricky for English speakers. Variations in regional accents may slightly alter vowel lengths.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning: Impervious to water (used as an adjective to describe materials, products, or objects that do not allow water to penetrate)

Translation(s) & Context:

• водонепроницаемый - Used in formal or technical contexts, such as describing clothing, electronics, or construction materials that resist water exposure.
• непромокаемый - Applied in informal settings, like everyday items (e.g., raincoats), with a more casual connotation.

Usage Examples:

• Эта куртка водонепроницаемая, поэтому она идеальна для дождливой погоды.

  This jacket is waterproof, so it's ideal for rainy weather.

• Мой новый телефон непромокаемый, и я могу брать его в бассейн.

  My new phone is waterproof, so I can take it to the pool.

• Водонепроницаемые краски используются в наружной рекламе для защиты от осадков.

  Waterproof paints are used in outdoor advertising to protect against precipitation.

• Непромокаемая ткань для палатки спасла нас во время ливня.

  The waterproof fabric of the tent saved us during the downpour.

• Эти водонепроницаемые часы выдерживают погружение на глубину до 50 метров.

  These waterproof watches can withstand submersion up to 50 meters.

Meaning: Resistant to moisture in a metaphorical sense (less common, e.g., in contexts like sealing or protection)

Translation(s) & Context:

• водонепроницаемый - In extended uses, such as in engineering or metaphorical descriptions, emphasizing durability.

Usage Examples:

• Водонепроницаемая система изоляции предотвращает утечки в трубах.

  The waterproof insulation system prevents leaks in the pipes.

• Непромокаемая пленка используется для защиты документов от влаги.

  Waterproof film is used to protect documents from moisture.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

Both translations are adjectives, which inflect based on gender, number, and case in Russian. 'Водонепроницаемый' and 'непромокаемый' follow standard short and long adjective forms, with 'водонепроницаемый' being more complex due to its length.

Note: These adjectives do not change in short form contexts but must agree with the noun they modify. They are invariable in predicative use (e.g., "Это водонепроницаемо").

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • влагостойкий (more general resistance to moisture; used interchangeably in some contexts)
  • гидроизоляционный (specifically for sealing or insulation)
• Antonyms:
  • просачиваемый (permeable, allowing water through)
  • влагопроницаемый (moisture-permeable)

Related Phrases:

• водонепроницаемый материал - A material that repels water; used in manufacturing or outdoor gear.
• непромокаемая одежда - Clothing that keeps out rain; common in casual wear descriptions.
• гидроизоляционный слой - A waterproof layer; refers to protective coatings in construction.

Usage Notes:

Choose 'водонепроницаемый' for formal, technical, or scientific contexts where precision is key, as it directly mirrors the English 'waterproof' in meaning. 'Непромокаемый' is more colloquial and suits everyday conversations. Always ensure the adjective agrees in gender, number, and case with the noun it modifies, which is a common Russian grammar rule. For example, use it with products (e.g., phones, jackets) to emphasize durability, but avoid overusing in non-literal senses unless the context is clear.

Common Errors:

• Error: Using the wrong gender or case, e.g., saying "водонепроницаемый куртка" (incorrect feminine agreement). Correct: "водонепроницаемая куртка". Explanation: Russian adjectives must inflect to match the noun, unlike English where 'waterproof' remains unchanged.

• Error: Confusing with similar words like 'влагостойкий', leading to misuse in waterproof-specific contexts. Correct: Use 'водонепроницаемый' for complete water resistance. Explanation: 'Влагостойкий' implies tolerance to humidity but not full submersion.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, terms like 'водонепроницаемый' are particularly relevant in regions with harsh weather, such as Siberia, where waterproof gear is essential for daily life and outdoor activities. This reflects a broader emphasis on practicality and resilience in Russian language and society.

Related Concepts:

• гидроизоляция
• влагозащита
• противоводный