сопротивле́ние
soprotivlénijeneuter
The English phrase "resistance" can be translated into Russian as сопротивле́ние (soprotivlénije) or отпо́р. If unsure, use сопротивле́ние.
Meaning: act of resisting (noun)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| сопротивле́ние | soprotivlénije | neuter |
| отпо́р | otpór | masculine |
сопротивле́ние is the standard and most common term for various types of resistance, including physical, political or electrical resistance. In a scientific context, it is specifically used to describe electrical resistance. отпо́р is used to describe a more sudden, verbal or forceful pushback or rebuttal.
What does it mean word for word?
The word сопротивле́ние is constructed from the prefix со- (meaning together or with), the root -против- (meaning against) and the suffix -ление (which forms a noun of action).
Which one should you use?
While сопротивле́ние is the general term for many forms of resistance, отпо́р is specifically used when describing a sudden, verbal or forceful pushback.
How does it change in a sentence?
сопротивле́ние is a neuter noun, while отпо́р is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
soprotivlénije
Did you know?
- The prefix со- in сопротивле́ние traditionally implies 'together'. This suggests that the act of resisting is conceptually viewed as a collective effort or a mutual struggle against a force.
- The word отпо́р is often used in the phrase дать отпо́р, which literally means 'to give a pushback'. This is the standard way to describe fighting back against an aggressor or rejecting a romantic advance.
- The root of сопротивле́ние, which is против, also means 'opposite' or 'against' in a spatial sense, like 'across' or 'on the other side'.
Examples in context
- Протестующие выражают сопротивление новому закону.The protesters are expressing resistance against the new law.
- Материал обладает высокой резистентностью к воздействию радиации.The material has high resistance to radiation.
- Они ведут борьбу за свои права.They are fighting for their rights.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “resistance” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
