I'm learning עברית

מעצר — meaning in English: detention

ma'atsar · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for arrest
המסוגלים
hamesugalim
מעצר
ma'atsar
לבניין
lebinyan
האסטרטגית
ha'estrategit
תלויים
tluyim
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
formal common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'מעצר' (ma'atsar) in legal contexts, particularly when discussing arrests or police procedures. For instance, someone might say they were in 'מעצר' after being detained by law enforcement during a protest.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'מעצר' specifically refers to detention, the word 'חסימה' (chasima) can mean 'blocking' or 'closure,' which is broader in scope. You might choose 'מעצר' in contexts involving law enforcement, while 'חסימה' could refer to physical barriers.
Culture
'מעצר' is derived from the root עצר (atzar), which means 'to stop' or 'to restrain.' This word is prevalent in legal discourse in Israel, where discussions around civil rights and law enforcement practices often bring it to the forefront, especially in contemporary debates regarding justice and individual freedoms.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of 'מעצר' in Hebrew?
'מעצר' means 'detention' in Hebrew, typically used in legal or law enforcement contexts to refer to the act of holding someone in custody.
Q.How do you pronounce 'מעצר'?
'מעצר' is pronounced as 'ma'atsar,' with emphasis on the second syllable.
Q.Is 'מעצר' used in everyday conversation?
'מעצר' is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as legal discussions or news reports, rather than in casual conversation.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words