меньшинство — meaning in English: minority

men'shinstvo · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for minority

страна

strana

белок

belok

меньшинство

men'shinstvo

левый

levyy

Частота

Chastota

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'меньшинство' during discussions about social issues, cultural identity, and politics, especially when addressing the rights and representation of different groups within society. For instance, you might hear it in a news report discussing the rights of ethnic minorities in Russia or in academic settings where sociologists analyze demographic trends.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'малочисленный' (malochislenny), meaning 'small-numbered,' which can refer to a smaller group within a larger context. However, 'меньшинство' specifically denotes a recognized minority group, particularly in political and social contexts, making it the preferred choice for discussions about rights and representation.

Culture

'Меньшинство' derives from the root word 'меньше' meaning 'less,' indicating a smaller or lesser part of a whole. In Russian culture, discussions about minority rights are often tied to historical contexts, such as the Soviet era, when various ethnic groups faced oppression. This word plays a crucial role in contemporary conversations about inclusivity and representation in modern Russia.

FAQ

Q.What does the word 'меньшинство' mean in English?

'Меньшинство' translates to 'minority' in English, referring to a group that is smaller in number compared to the majority within a certain context, often in terms of ethnicity, religion, or culture.

Q.How do I use 'меньшинство' in a sentence?

You can use 'меньшинство' in a sentence like this: 'В нашей стране есть много меньшинств, которые заслуживают защиты.' This means 'There are many minorities in our country that deserve protection.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'меньшинство'?

A common mistake is using 'меньшинство' in contexts where you should refer to a specific group designation, such as 'этническое меньшинство' (ethnic minority). Make sure to specify if you're discussing a particular type of minority to maintain clarity.

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