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עברית
רעב — meaning in English: hunger
ra'ev · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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hungry (m.s.)
קצינים
ktsinim
בשיר
beshir
האופן
ha'ofen
רעב
ra'ev
ערי
arei
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word רעב (ra'ev) in various contexts, especially during meals or when discussing food-related topics. For example, someone might say 'אני רעב' (Ani ra'ev) when they are feeling hungry and want to express their need for food, whether at home, at a restaurant, or during a casual conversation with friends.
Synonyms & nuances
A closer synonym is 'רעבה' (ra'ava), which is the feminine form of the word. While רעב (ra'ev) is used universally for either gender, using 'רעבה' can feel more descriptive in specific contexts, such as referring to a female character's hunger in a story.
Culture
The word רעב (ra'ev) has deep roots in Hebrew literature and is often associated with concepts of need and desire. In Jewish tradition, discussing hunger takes on spiritual significance, particularly during fasts, where the experience of physical hunger is linked to a heightened sense of spirituality. This connection adds layers to the understanding of רעב, making it not just about physical sustenance but also about emotional and spiritual fulfillment.
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