масло — meaning in English: butter

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Guess the translation for oil

связи

svyazi

крышка

kryshka

зуб

zub

масло

maslo

орган

organ

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 'масло' in everyday conversations, particularly during meals or when discussing cooking. For example, you might hear 'масло' when someone asks for butter while making pancakes or when discussing the ingredients of a traditional Russian dish like blini.

Synonyms & nuances

'Масло' specifically refers to butter, while 'жир' (zhir) means fat in a broader sense. You would use 'масло' when referring to butter for cooking or spreading, while 'жир' could refer to animal fat or cooking oils.

Culture

Interestingly, the word 'масло' comes from the Old Slavic term meaning 'fat' or 'oil', reflecting its origins in food preparation. Butter holds a significant place in Russian cuisine, often featuring in holiday feasts and everyday meals alike, symbolizing richness and hospitality.

FAQ

Q.What is the gender of the word 'масло' in Russian?

'Масло' is a neuter noun in Russian, so it takes the neuter form of adjectives and verbs. For example, you would say 'холодное масло' for 'cold butter'.

Q.Can I use 'масло' in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, in Russian, 'масло' can be used metaphorically to describe something that smooths over difficulties, similar to 'greasing the wheels' in English.

Q.Are there any common phrases that include the word 'масло'?

Absolutely! A common phrase is 'масло масляное', which translates to 'buttery butter' or 'redundant butter', used to describe something that’s obvious or unnecessarily repetitive.

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