Laputa (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Proper noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ləˈpjuːtə/

Meaning and Usage

"Laputa" is a fictional flying island that appears in Jonathan Swift's satirical novel "Gulliver's Travels," published in 1726. It symbolizes the disconnect between theoretical knowledge and practical application, often representing a society obsessed with science and mathematics with little regard for the real world or human emotion. The term is used in literary contexts and discussions of satire, and it has historical significance as an example of early science fiction.

"Laputa" is not frequently used in everyday language and is primarily found in literary discussions or critiques of similar themes found in literature. It is more common in written contexts than in oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. Laputa is often depicted as a place where logic and reason prevails over common sense.

2. Лапута часто изображается как место, где логика и разум преобладают над здравым смыслом.

3. In "Gulliver's Travels," Gulliver visits Laputa and encounters its inhabitants' bizarre obsessions with science.

4. В «Путешествиях Гулливера» Гулливер посещает Лапуту и сталкивается с бредовыми одержимостями её жителей наукой.

5. The concept of Laputa has been used to critique the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

6. Концепция Лапуты использовалась для критики рационализма эпохи Просвещения.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Laputa" is not a common term in idiomatic expressions, it can be referenced in discussions about intellectualism and its disconnection from reality.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. He often lives in his own Laputa, lost in thoughts far removed from reality.

2. Он часто живет в своей собственной Лапуте, потерянный в мыслях, далеких от реальности.

3. The scientists' proposals felt like the fantasies of Laputa, detached from the everyday lives of common people.

4. Предложения ученых казались фантазиями Лапуты, оторванными от повседневной жизни простых людей.

5. In their pursuit of perfect knowledge, they built an ivory tower reminiscent of Laputa.

6. В своем стремлении к совершенным знаниям они построили слоновую башню, напоминающую Лапуту.

Etymology

The word "Laputa" is derived from the Spanish word "laputa," meaning "the whore" or "the strumpet," which Swift used to characterize the frivolous nature of the island's inhabitants. Swift's invention reflects criticism of those who prioritize abstract ideas over tangible human experiences.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Flying island
• Utopian place

Antonyms

• Grounded reality
• Practical world

"Laputa" serves as a powerful symbol in literature for the dangers of detachment from reality through an obsessive focus on intellectual pursuits without grounding in practical existence.