Paraffin generally refers to a type of waxy substance that is derived from petroleum, and it's commonly used for making candles, sealing jars, and in various industrial applications. The term can also refer to liquid paraffin, which is a mineral oil used in medicine as a laxative. In English, it is used in both written and oral contexts, though it may appear more frequently in written contexts, especially in scientific and industrial discussions.
The candles were made of paraffin, giving them a smooth finish.
Свечи были сделаны из парафина, что придавало им гладкую поверхность.
The recipe called for paraffin wax to seal the jars.
Рецепт требовал парафиновый воск для герметизации банок.
Liquid paraffin is often used as a laxative in medicinal preparations.
Жидкий парафин часто используется как слабительное в медицинских препаратах.
The term "paraffin" is not commonly featured in idiomatic expressions in English. However, one might encounter phrases that reflect its uses in more specific contexts, related to its properties or applications. Here are some relevant sentences:
"He was as slippery as liquid paraffin, dodging responsibilities."
Он был скользким, как жидкий парафин, избегая ответственности.
"The meeting was as dull as paraffin wax; no one was really engaged."
Встреча была скучной, как парафиновый воск; никто не был по-настоящему вовлечен.
"You can't just pour paraffin on problems; you need to tackle them head-on."
Нельзя просто наливать парафин на проблемы; нужно сталкиваться с ними лицом к лицу.
The word "paraffin" originates from the Latin word "paraffinum," which means "lacking affinity," referring to its chemical stability and inertness. The prefix "para-" indicates a derivative or a lack of affinity for other chemicals, while "affin" comes from the root "affinitas," meaning affinity or connection.
This exploration of "paraffin" provides a comprehensive look at its meanings, examples, and usage in different contexts.