|
A Highly Inflected Language:
Nearly all words in Russian are formed by adding prefixes to the beginning
of the word, combining words, changing the ending, and even
changing the base word. It is similar with English when you take the
word "normal" and you add a suffix like "normalization" to change
the meaning and intent of the word. The Russian language employs
suffixes and prefixes as with English. But in Russian it tends to
be much more extensive (it’s called a ‘highly inflected’ language).
Why does this present a problem? This presents most English speaking persons with
a problem, because, when we open a dictionary of English words, we have come to expect
to find nearly every word listed. However, in Russian most are not listed. Why?
Russians understand the modular nature of their language, and know instinctively
to look up the base word (the nominative form, in the case of nouns). Base words
are ROOT words. Therefore, if you don't know
the root word, often it will be impossible to locate a word that you see in print
or have heard. So your first real challenge is to learn to recognize the root of
any given word. Or in the case of verbs, to
know how to make the infinitive form, which is what is listed in the dictionary.
This is why I recommend the SlovoEd Electronic dictionary for home study.
You can find a word IN ANY GRAMMATICAL FORM in one click,
without even leaving your active application! And you can display all the
grammatical forms of the word for quick reference. And outstandingly,
you can download it immediately for a FREE TRIAL! Click here for more information.
This electronic dictionary can save you huge amounts of time and frustration.
Using paper and ink dictionaries, this was one of my many disappointments
in trying to trail down and learn Russian words.
It took me a long time to learn to pick out the root word in the dictionary.
Don't think the word is not in the dictionary, because the form of the word
you’re searching for is not there!
Changes in word forms versus Context:
One of the major differences between Russian and English is how meaning is changed
by declining the nouns (changing the word ending). In English, we employ word order,
prepositions, etc., to make clear.
changeTherefore, English grammar often expresses function
by the order of words, and the use of additional words.
Whereas, Russian employs changes to word forms to change meanings.
This is important, because when you are attempting to understand Russian, you
must first realize words change more than in English.
So, you must learn to recognize how words change. In addition to
being a key in knowing what to look up in the dictionary, once you start to
recognize these changes you will get a real sense of what is being expressed
even if you have never seen that word before.
Why I bring these factors to your attention:
Firstly, I highly recommend using an electronic dictionary for home study!
It can save you huge amounts of time and help in learning the language with
the grammar reference feature.
Secondly, I point this out because a good desk reference Russian/English
dictionary will have a ‘guide to use’ included in it to assist in the areas
just explained. Remember, a good dictionary is an investment.
Side point: Surprisingly, some low priced dictionaries don’t show the
accented syllable in the Russian words, but the show the accent in a phonetic
spelling of the word. This may help when beginning to study Russian, but after
a short while, you will probably find it annoying.
All said and done, you will
need a good dictionary or two!
A sturdy pocket dictionary is useful for carrying on your person at all times.
A midsize dictionary is useful for carrying to class, meetings, etc. And a
large reference dictionary is important for use at home or work. Choose wisely and carefully!
I’ve selected a few dictionaries here that I think will fit your needs in these
areas.
Dan Bauer |