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ספינות — meaning in English: Ships

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

Guess the translation for ships
שבנה
shebana
מכונות
mekhonot
ספינות
sfinot
אומנות
omanut
והורה
vehore
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word ספינות in contexts related to transportation, trade, and maritime activities. For example, when discussing the import-export industry, one might say, 'The ספינות are crucial for transporting goods across the Mediterranean.' It can also be used in casual conversations about leisure activities, such as sailing or fishing trips.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is אוניות (oniyot), which specifically refers to larger ships or vessels. While ספינות can refer to various types of ships, אוניות typically denotes those used for commercial purposes. You might choose ספינות when discussing a variety of boats, while אוניות is more appropriate in a shipping context.
Culture
The word ספינות is the plural form of ספינה (sfinah), which comes from the root ס-פ-ן, relating to ships and vessels. Historically, ships played a significant role in the development of trade routes in ancient Israel, facilitating connections with neighboring cultures and boosting the economy. Today, the word evokes images of Israel's vibrant maritime activities, especially in cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv.
FAQ
Q.What is the singular form of ספינות?
The singular form is ספינה (sfinah), which means 'ship.' It’s important to use the correct form based on whether you're talking about one ship or several.
Q.Can ספינות be used to describe boats?
Yes, ספינות can refer to various types of vessels, including boats, but it is more often used for larger ships. For smaller boats, words like סירה (sira) are more appropriate.
Q.Is there a specific context for using ספינות?
Yes, ספינות is often used in discussions about trade, transportation, and maritime activities. It's suitable for both casual and formal conversations about these topics.
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