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המלחים — meaning in English: The sailors

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

Guess the translation for the salts
התואר
hato'ar
המלחים
hamelakhim
וחימוש
vekhimush
בתחום
bitkhum
למוצר
lemutsar
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the term 'המלחים' in conversations about maritime activities, such as discussing a recent sailing trip or a naval event. This word might also be heard in nautical literature or films that depict life at sea, making it relevant in both casual and artistic contexts.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'המלחים' specifically refers to sailors, another related term is 'מרים' (m'ramim), which refers to ship captains. You would use 'המלחים' when discussing the crew as a whole, but 'מרים' when referring to the leadership on a vessel.
Culture
'המלחים' derives from the root 'מלח' (malakh), which means 'to be salty'—a playful nod to the ocean's salty waters. Historically, sailors have played a crucial role in Israel's economy and security, especially in coastal cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv. The image of the sailor is deeply embedded in Israeli culture, often symbolizing adventure and exploration.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of the word 'sailor' in Hebrew?
'המלחים' is the plural form of 'מלח' (malakh), which means 'sailor.' If you're talking about one sailor, you would use 'מלח.'
Q.How do you pronounce 'המלחים' correctly?
'המלחים' is pronounced as 'ha-me-lakh-im'. The emphasis is typically on the last syllable, making it sound fluid and rhythmic.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'המלחים'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'המלחים' with 'מלחיים' (malakhim), which is a completely different word. Remember, 'המלחים' specifically pertains to sailors and their collective role at sea.
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