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בורים — meaning in English: Ignorant

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Guess the translation for ignorant (m.pl.)
לעולם
le'olam
ברק
barak
מונף
munaf
בורים
burim
במובן
bamuvan
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'בורים' (burim) in educational discussions or when expressing frustration about someone's lack of knowledge on a specific topic. For example, during a heated debate about politics, someone might refer to individuals who are misinformed as 'בורים' to emphasize their ignorance on the matter.
Synonyms & nuances
'בורים' often emphasizes a lack of knowledge or awareness, while synonyms like 'טיפשים' (tipshim, meaning 'foolish') imply a more negative judgment about someone's intelligence. You would choose 'בורים' when focusing on ignorance rather than intelligence level.
Culture
'בורים' originates from the Hebrew root 'בור', which means 'to be empty' or 'to dig', metaphorically suggesting an emptiness of knowledge. This term has historical significance in Jewish texts, where wisdom and knowledge are highly valued, making ignorance a notable point of discussion in religious and cultural contexts.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'בורים' mean?
'בורים' (burim) translates to 'ignorant' in English, referring to someone lacking knowledge or awareness about a particular subject.
Q.How do you use 'בורים' in a sentence?
You can say, 'הם בורים בנושא זה' (Hem burim b'neshach ze), which means 'They are ignorant on this subject.' This context highlights their lack of knowledge.
Q.Is 'בורים' a polite term?
'בורים' is generally neutral but can be perceived as slightly derogatory depending on the tone and context. It's best used thoughtfully, especially in formal discussions.
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