образец — meaning in English: sample

Usage

Native speakers commonly use the word образец when discussing prototypes, templates, or examples in both professional and everyday contexts. For instance, you might hear it in a business meeting when referring to a sample product, or in an educational setting when a teacher provides a sample essay to illustrate expectations.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for образец is 'пример' (primer), which means 'example.' While образец often refers to a sample that can be replicated or modeled upon, пример is more commonly used to denote a general example used for illustration or explanation.

Culture

The word образец is derived from the root 'образы' meaning 'to shape' or 'to model'. In Russian culture, the concept of образец extends beyond mere samples to encompass ideals and standards, often used in discussions about craftsmanship and quality. Interestingly, during the Soviet era, образцы were heavily emphasized in the production of goods, reinforcing the importance of quality and uniformity in various industries.

FAQ