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הזבובים — meaning in English: The flies

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

Guess the translation for the flies
כי
ki
לפתע
lefeta
הזבובים
hazvuvim
בחלבון
bekhelbon
קמה
kama
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neutral common
Usage
The word הזבובים (hazvuvim) is commonly used in everyday conversations among Hebrew speakers, particularly when discussing insects, cleanliness, or even when expressing annoyance at their presence. For instance, during a picnic, someone might exclaim, 'הזבובים כאן מציקים!' (The flies are bothering us!), highlighting a relatable situation.
Synonyms & nuances
While הזבובים (hazvuvim) refers specifically to flies, the word מעופף (me'ofef) means 'flying insect.' You would use hazvuvim when specifically talking about flies, whereas me'ofef could refer to any flying insect, including butterflies or bees.
Culture
Interestingly, the Hebrew word הזבובים (hazvuvim) is derived from the root verb 'זבוב' (zvuv), which has ancient Semitic origins. Flies have played a significant role in various cultural references, often symbolizing decay or nuisance in both literature and daily life, making this word quite evocative in conversations about nature and hygiene.
FAQ
Q.What does הזבובים mean in English?
The Hebrew word הזבובים (hazvuvim) translates to 'the flies' in English. It's the plural form of זבוב (zvuv), which means 'fly.'
Q.How do you pronounce הזבובים?
The pronunciation of הזבובים is 'hazvuvim.' The 'haz' sounds like 'has' but with a 'z,' and 'vuvim' rhymes with 'zooming.'
Q.Is there a feminine form for הזבובים?
No, the word הזבובים (hazvuvim) is a masculine plural noun, and Hebrew does not have a distinct feminine form for this word. When referring to flies in general, this term is universally used.
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