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אונים — meaning in English: Powerless

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

Guess the translation for strength / power
בגמר
bigmar
יד
yad
מדעית
mada'it
המאמינים
hama'aminim
אונים
onim
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word אונים (onim) in discussions about feelings of helplessness or incapacity, particularly in emotional or philosophical contexts. For example, one might say, 'In times of crisis, I often feel אונים when faced with overwhelming challenges.' It is also common in literature or poetry to express deeper emotional states.
Synonyms & nuances
While אונים (onim) denotes a state of powerlessness, another Hebrew word, חולשה (chulsha), means weakness more generally. Use אונים when specifically expressing a lack of power in a situation, while חולשה may refer to physical or emotional weakness without the same connotation of contextual helplessness.
Culture
The Hebrew word אונים (onim) is derived from the root 'א.ו.נ', which relates to strength and power. Interestingly, while the word translates to 'powerless', it's often used in discussions about existential themes, reflecting a deep cultural connection to the Jewish experience of struggle and resilience throughout history. This duality between strength and powerlessness resonates in many Hebrew literary works, making it a poignant term.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word אונים mean?
אונים (onim) translates to 'powerless' in English, conveying a sense of helplessness or inability to act effectively in a given situation.
Q.How do you use אונים in a sentence?
You can use אונים in sentences like 'במצבים קשים אני מרגיש אונים' which means 'In difficult situations, I feel powerless.' It captures a personal sentiment about helplessness.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with using אונים?
A common mistake is to confuse אונים with חולשה (chulsha). While both can denote a lack of strength, אונים specifically refers to powerlessness in a context, whereas חולשה is broader and can refer to weakness in general.
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