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הבירה — meaning in English: The capital

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

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נוטה
note
ימיים
yamiyim
סוגים
sugim
הבירה
habira
לדוגמה
ledugma
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neutral very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word 'הבירה' when discussing their country's political landscape, especially in conversations about government and leadership. For instance, one might say, 'הבירה של ישראל היא ירושלים' (The capital of Israel is Jerusalem) during a conversation about travel or history.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'מרכז' (merkaz), meaning center, but 'הבירה' specifically refers to a political capital, while 'מרכז' can denote any central location or hub. You would choose 'הבירה' when specifically referring to the seat of government.
Culture
'הבירה' has deep cultural significance, particularly in Israel, where Jerusalem is not only considered the capital but also a city of profound historical and spiritual importance. The word comes from the root 'בירה,' which is related to the idea of a fortified place, highlighting the city's historical role as a center of power and resilience.
FAQ
Q.What is the Hebrew word for capital?
'הבירה' (habira) is the Hebrew word for capital, specifically referring to the political center of a country.
Q.How do you use 'הבירה' in a sentence?
You can use 'הבירה' in sentences like, 'הבירה של צרפת היא פריז' (The capital of France is Paris). It's often used in discussions about geography, politics, and history.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'הבירה'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'הבירה' with 'מרכז' (merkaz). Remember, 'הבירה' specifically refers to a capital city, while 'מרכז' can refer to any central location.
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