ספינה — meaning in English: ship

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

Guess the translation for ship

בתה

bita

שנראה

shenir'e

ספינה

sfina

לפשרה

lifshara

בלבול

bilbul

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word ספינה when discussing maritime activities, such as in conversations about travel, fishing, or naval history. It's common to hear this term in both casual chats about summer vacations on the Mediterranean and in more formal contexts like maritime law discussions.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for ספינה is אוניה (uniyah), which also means 'ship' but typically refers to larger vessels, especially those used for transportation of goods. You would use ספינה when referring to any kind of ship, including smaller boats, making it a more versatile choice in various contexts.

Culture

The word ספינה has its roots in ancient Semitic languages, reflecting the longstanding relationship between the Hebrew people and maritime trade. Historically, ships played a crucial role in the prosperity of ancient Israel, facilitating trade with neighboring cultures and contributing to the nation’s economic strength. Interestingly, the Hebrew Bible contains numerous references to ships, illustrating their importance in transportation and commerce.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of ספינה?

The plural form of ספינה is ספינות (sfirot). This form is used when talking about multiple ships, such as in discussions about a fleet or maritime events.

Q.Can ספינה also refer to boats?

Yes, ספינה can refer to boats as well, but it is generally used for larger vessels. If you're specifically talking about smaller boats, you might use the word סירה (sira) instead.

Q.How do you pronounce ספינה correctly?

The pronunciation of ספינה is 'sfina,' where the 's' is pronounced softly and the 'i' is like the 'ee' in 'see.' Practice saying it slowly, focusing on the 'sf' blend at the beginning.

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