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נקבה — meaning in English: female

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השאלה
hash'ala
הפה
hape
נקבה
nikba
לשימור
leshimur
מעט
me'at
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word 'נקבה' (nikba) in discussions about gender, animals, or biology. For example, in a zoological context, one might say 'הנקבה של האריה שואגת' (the female lion roars) during a nature documentary. It can also appear in everyday conversations about family roles, such as discussing a female child or sibling.
Synonyms & nuances
'נקבה' (nikba) specifically refers to the female gender in various contexts, while a close synonym 'אישה' (isha) means 'woman' and is used for adult females. You would choose 'נקבה' when discussing biological or gender-related distinctions rather than social roles.
Culture
'נקבה' (nikba) is derived from the root 'נ-ק-ב' which relates to the concept of piercing or making a hole—an interesting metaphor for the biological function of females in reproduction. In contemporary Hebrew, the term has also evolved to encompass discussions about gender identity and equality, reflecting the dynamic nature of language and societal changes.
FAQ
Q.What does נקבה mean in English?
'נקבה' (nikba) translates to 'female' in English. It is used to denote the female gender in various contexts, including animals, humans, and biological discussions.
Q.How do you pronounce נקבה?
'נקבה' is pronounced as 'nik-ba', with the emphasis on the first syllable. Practicing the pronunciation can help in effectively using the word in conversation.
Q.Can נקבה be used in formal writing?
Yes, 'נקבה' can be used in both formal and informal writing. It is appropriate for academic texts, discussions, and everyday conversations, making it a versatile term.
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