I'm learning नेपाली

संहार — meaning in English: Massacre

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

Guess the translation for Massacre
तीन
संहार
सुख
उदास
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Nepali for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
formal advanced
Usage
The word संहार is typically used in discussions surrounding significant historical events or conflicts, such as wars or genocides. Native speakers might use it in a serious context when recounting tragic incidents, like the Nepalese civil war or other violent confrontations, where large groups of people were killed.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'हत्या' (hatyā), which means 'murder' or 'killing'. However, संहार specifically implies a mass killing with a broader impact, while हत्या can refer to singular or individual acts. You would choose संहार when discussing large-scale, systematic violence as opposed to personal acts of violence.
Culture
The term संहार has deep roots in the Nepali language, originating from the Sanskrit word 'संहार' (saṁhāra), which refers to destruction or annihilation. Its usage often evokes strong emotional responses, as it is associated with solemn and tragic events in history, reflecting on the collective memory of a society that has experienced various forms of violence and loss.
FAQ
Q.What does संहार mean in English?
संहार translates to 'massacre' in English, referring to the brutal killing of a large number of people, often in a violent context.
Q.In what contexts can I use the word संहार?
You can use संहार in formal discussions about historical events, news reports, or academic texts that analyze violence and conflict, ensuring that the context is appropriate given the gravity of the term.
Q.Are there other words related to violence in Nepali?
Yes, words like 'युद्ध' (yuddha) for 'war' or 'हत्या' (hatyā) for 'murder' are related, but each carries unique connotations regarding the scale and nature of the violence described.
Learn nepali with Maspeak →
Nepali Vocabulary