בשבי — meaning in English: in captivity

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

Guess the translation for in [the] captivity / in [the] prison

בשבי

bashevi

נעשה

na'asa

ויחידות

veyekhidat

לשטח

lashetakh

הפליטים

haplitim

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word בשבי (bashevi) in discussions about war, imprisonment, or historical events involving captivity. It might come up in news reports covering hostage situations or in literature that reflects on the human experience of being held against one's will.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'אסיר' (asir), meaning 'prisoner.' While 'אסיר' specifically denotes a person incarcerated, 'בשבי' encompasses a broader sense of captivity that can include hostages or any circumstance where freedom is significantly restricted. Choosing 'בשבי' conveys a more emotional and dramatic context compared to the more clinical 'אסיר.'

Culture

The word בשבי (bashevi) has deep historical roots in Hebrew literature, often appearing in narratives that explore themes of struggle and resilience. Its usage can be poignant, especially in the context of the Jewish people's history, involving periods of captivity and longing for freedom, making it resonate on multiple levels for speakers.

FAQ

Q.What does בשבי mean in English?

בשבי (bashevi) translates to 'in captivity' in English, referring to a state where someone is held against their will.

Q.How do you use בשבי in a sentence?

You might say, 'הוא היה בשבי במשך חודשים' (He was in captivity for months), to describe someone's prolonged experience of being held.

Q.Is בשבי used only for people?

While primarily associated with people, בשבי can also refer to animals in contexts where they are captured or confined, though this usage is less common.

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