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עברית
מדרגות — meaning in English: Stairs
madregot · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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stairs
מדרגות
madregot
חבלים
khavalim
ונתן
venatan
מפלס
miflas
ומהם
umehem
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word מדרגות (madregot) in everyday conversation, especially when discussing buildings, homes, or public spaces. For instance, someone might say, 'Please take the stairs (המדרגות) instead of the elevator,' highlighting practical situations where stairs are a consideration.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is סולם (sulam), which means ladder. While מדרגות (madregot) typically refers to fixed, architectural stairs, סולם (sulam) conveys a more portable, often inclined structure used for climbing. You would choose מדרגות when referring to a staircase in a building, while סולם might be used when talking about climbing to a height in an outdoor setting.
Culture
The word מדרגות has its roots in the Hebrew root 'דרג' which means to step or to climb, reflecting the physical action associated with stairs. It's also interesting to note that many synagogues and historical sites in Israel feature impressive staircases, often symbolizing the journey of life or spiritual ascension, making מדרגות (madregot) a term that carries both physical and metaphorical weight.
FAQ
