ההשמדה — meaning in English: Extermination

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

Guess the translation for the destroying / the extermination

האירועים

ha'eru'im

שכבה

shakhva

מתוך

mitokh

הקדומות

hakdumot

ההשמדה

hahashmada

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Hebrew for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

formal advanced

Usage

The word השמדה (hahashmada) is often used in discussions about historical events, particularly those involving mass destruction or genocide. Native speakers might encounter it in academic settings, news reports covering current events, or literature addressing themes of survival and morality.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is חיסול (chisul), which means 'elimination' or 'killing.' However, השמדה (hahashmada) specifically emphasizes total destruction, often on a larger scale, while חיסול (chisul) can refer to targeted actions. Choosing השמדה typically conveys a sense of systemic obliteration.

Culture

The concept of השמדה (hahashmada) is deeply intertwined with Jewish history, particularly the Holocaust, where the term is used to describe the systematic extermination of Jewish people and other groups. Interestingly, the word is not just a descriptor of physical destruction but also carries a weight of cultural memory and trauma, reflecting the collective consciousness around survival and resilience.

FAQ

Q.What does השמדה mean in English?

The Hebrew word השמדה (hahashmada) translates to 'extermination' in English, often used to refer to the act of completely destroying something, especially in a historical or dramatic context.

Q.In what contexts is השמדה used?

השמדה is primarily used in formal discussions, especially those related to historical events or genocides. It can also appear in literature addressing themes of destruction and loss.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using השמדה?

Learners often confuse השמדה with related but less severe terms like הרג (hereg), which means 'killing.' It's important to use השמדה when discussing complete destruction or extermination.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

10.000 Hebrew Words