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עברית
מילואים — meaning in English: Reserve duty
milu'im · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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supplement / addition / reserves (military)
המעבר
hama'avar
מילואים
milu'im
נכונה
nekhona
צל
tsel
לממשלה
lamemshala
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers typically use the word מילואים (milu'im) in the context of military service, particularly when discussing the responsibilities of reservists in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). It may come up in conversations about national duty, military training sessions, or during discussions about the obligations of citizens to serve in the reserves after their active duty.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'שירות מילואים' (sherut milu'im), which translates to 'reserve service.' While both terms refer to the same idea, מילואים (milu'im) is often used in a broader sense, while שירות מילואים (sherut milu'im) specifically emphasizes the act of serving in the reserves. You would choose מילואים when discussing the concept itself, whereas שירות מילואים would be used to refer to the actual experience or obligation of service.
Culture
The term מילואים (milu'im) has deep roots in Israeli culture, reflecting the country’s reliance on a reserve military system to bolster its defense forces. Historically, during times of conflict, the IDF has called upon reservists to mobilize quickly, highlighting the importance of national service in Israeli society and identity. This word exemplifies the blend of duty and community that is central to the Israeli experience.
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