טרף — meaning in English: prey

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

Guess the translation for prey

המודרניים

hamoderniyim

לחקלאות

lakhakla'ut

טרף

teref

מערבית

ma'aravit

שימשה

shimsha

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neutral common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use the word 'טרף' in discussions about nature, such as when talking about animals hunting for food during a hike or while watching wildlife documentaries. It's also used in metaphorical contexts, like describing someone who is vulnerable to manipulation, akin to being 'prey' in a social scenario.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'שבויה' (shvuya), which means 'captured' or 'captive.' While 'טרף' focuses on the idea of being hunted or preyed upon, 'שבויה' emphasizes being held or confined, so choosing one over the other depends on whether you want to highlight vulnerability or captivity.

Culture

'טרף' has its roots in the Hebrew Bible, where it is frequently used to describe animals that are hunted or captured. The word also carries a deeper significance in Hebrew literature, symbolizing vulnerability and the rawness of the predator-prey dynamic, which can extend beyond the natural world into human relationships and societal structures.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of the Hebrew word 'טרף'?

'טרף' means 'prey' in English, referring to animals that are hunted by predators. It can also metaphorically describe someone who is susceptible to harm or manipulation.

Q.How do you use 'טרף' in a sentence?

You can say, 'הצייד רדף אחרי הטרף שלו' which translates to 'The hunter chased after his prey.' This shows how the word is applied in a straightforward hunting context.

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'טרף'?

A common mistake is using 'טרף' in contexts where 'שבויה' would be more appropriate. Remember, 'טרף' specifically relates to the idea of being hunted, while 'שבויה' is about being captured.

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