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рак — meaning in English: cancer

rak · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for cancer
избирателей
izbirateley
питания
pitaniya
сельское хозяйство
sel'skoye khozyaystvo
стратегия
strategiya
рак
rak
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'рак' in various contexts, particularly in medical discussions or when talking about health issues. For instance, you might hear it during conversations about cancer awareness in healthcare settings or in the context of discussing personal experiences with the illness.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'рак' primarily means 'cancer', the term 'онкология' refers to the field of medicine that deals with tumors and cancer. You would choose 'рак' when specifically discussing the disease itself, whereas 'онкология' would be suitable when talking about treatment or research related to cancer.
Culture
'Рак' shares its etymology with the word for 'crab' in Russian, which reflects the historical perception of the disease's invasive nature, akin to how a crab can scuttle sideways and invade spaces. This dual meaning adds an intriguing layer to the language, as it evokes both fear and fascination regarding the illness.
FAQ
Q.What does рак mean in English?
'Рак' means 'cancer' in English. It is used in both medical contexts and everyday discussions about health.
Q.How do you pronounce рак?
'Рак' is pronounced as 'rak'. It's a straightforward word, making it easy to remember for learners.
Q.Are there any common phrases that use рак?
Yes, you might hear phrases like 'диагноз рак' (diagnosis of cancer) or 'борьба с раком' (fight against cancer), which are commonly used in medical discussions.
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