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עברית
סכנה — meaning in English: danger
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danger / risk / hazard
סכנה
sakana
הכליאה
hakli'a
כינוי
kinui
ומוסדות
umosadot
הוצב
hutsav
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neutral
common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers use the word סכנה (sakan) in various contexts, particularly when discussing safety concerns, such as warning someone about a hazardous situation. For example, a parent might say, 'יש סכנה ברחוב' (There is danger in the street) when a child is playing near a busy road. Additionally, it may be used in medical situations to denote a serious health risk, such as 'המצב הבריאותי שלו בסכנה' (His health condition is in danger).
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'סיכון' (sikun), which means risk. While סכנה (sakan) generally refers to immediate danger, סיכון (sikun) can imply a potential risk that may not be as pressing. You might choose סכנה (sakan) when you want to emphasize an urgent threat, whereas סיכון (sikun) could be more appropriate for discussing hypothetical situations or risks in decision-making.
Culture
The word סכנה (sakan) has its roots in Hebrew scriptures, where it appears to emphasize the importance of safety and caution in daily life. Interestingly, the concept of danger is deeply woven into Jewish history, often seen in narratives warning against moral and physical threats, reflecting societal values on protecting one’s community. This word is a reminder of the vigilance required in both personal and communal aspects of life.
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