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רע — meaning in English: Bad

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

Guess the translation for Bad
סיפור
sipur
הארי
ha'ari
במקרה
b'mikre
כלום
klum
רע
ra
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informal common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'רע' (ra) in everyday conversations to describe something unpleasant or of poor quality, such as food that tastes bad or a negative experience. For instance, you might hear it in a context like, 'The movie was רע,' expressing disappointment after watching a film.
Synonyms & nuances
'רע' (ra) is often contrasted with 'רַעַשׁ' (ra’ash), which refers to noise or commotion but can carry a negative connotation in specific situations. While both can indicate something unpleasant, 'רע' is more general and can refer to moral or qualitative assessments, making it suitable for a broader range of uses.
Culture
The Hebrew word 'רע' has its roots in the ancient Semitic languages, where it has historically been associated with evil or harm. In Jewish texts, it often appears in discussions about moral conduct, illustrating the cultural depth associated with the idea of 'bad' in ethical dilemmas. Interestingly, the usage of 'רע' has evolved to also express frustration in mundane contexts, reflecting how language adapts to contemporary life.
FAQ
Q.What does רע mean in Hebrew?
'רע' means 'bad' in Hebrew, and it can refer to poor quality, unpleasant experiences, or negative moral judgments.
Q.How do you use רע in a sentence?
You can use 'רע' in sentences such as 'הטעמים כאן רעים' (The flavors here are bad) to describe food or experiences that don’t meet your expectations.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using רע?
A common mistake is using 'רע' too broadly. Ensure that it fits the context; for instance, use it for things like experiences or qualities but be cautious using it in more formal or ethical discussions where other words might be more appropriate.
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