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עוקץ — meaning in English: sting

okets (v.) · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for stings (m.s.)
הצבעה
hatsba'a
תכנון
tikhnun
עוקץ
okets (v.)
גג
gag
מבינה
mevina
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word 'עוקץ' in everyday conversations about nature, especially when discussing insects like bees or wasps that can sting. Additionally, it can be used metaphorically in discussions about emotional experiences, where someone might feel a sharp pain from a hurtful comment, akin to a sting.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'דקירה' (dikira), which means 'prick' or 'stab.' While 'עוקץ' is more commonly used for the sting of insects, 'דקירה' is often reserved for sharper, more violent actions, making 'עוקץ' a gentler term in certain contexts.
Culture
'עוקץ' has its roots in the ancient Hebrew language and is often associated with the idea of both physical and emotional pain. In Israeli culture, the word not only refers to the sting of an insect but also serves as a metaphor for betrayal or sharp criticism, illustrating the duality of physical and emotional experiences.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'עוקץ' mean in English?
'עוקץ' translates to 'sting' in English and refers to the sharp, painful sensation often caused by insects such as bees.
Q.How do you use 'עוקץ' in a sentence?
You can use 'עוקץ' in a sentence like, 'הדבורים עוקצים אם אתה מתקרב יותר מדי' which means 'The bees will sting if you get too close.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'עוקץ'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'עוקץ' with 'כאב' (ke'ev), which means 'pain.' While 'עוקץ' specifically refers to the act of stinging, 'כאב' refers to the feeling resulting from it. It's important to use 'עוקץ' when discussing the action itself.
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