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בטל — meaning in English: void

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

Guess the translation for canceled / void / idle
בטל
batel
בסיסית
bsisit
עיצוב
itsuv
בענף
ba'anaf
משדה
misde
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formal common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word בטל (batel) in legal or philosophical discussions, particularly when addressing issues of validity or nullity. For example, in a courtroom, a judge might declare a law בטל if it contradicts higher legislation. Additionally, in academic contexts, students might discuss a theory as being בטל if it's been disproven or is no longer relevant.
Synonyms & nuances
While בטל (batel) conveys a strong sense of nullity, another word, ריק (rik), means 'empty.' You might choose בטל when discussing the legal nullification of a contract, while ריק might refer more to physical emptiness. This nuance helps speakers articulate specific types of void or absence.
Culture
The word בטל (batel) has roots in Hebrew that connect deeply to concepts of absence and negation. Its usage in legal texts reflects the historical importance of law in Jewish culture, where the validity of texts and agreements has been meticulously documented. Over time, בטל has evolved into various contexts, symbolizing not just legal nullity but also the philosophical notion of existential void.
FAQ
Q.What does בטל mean in Hebrew?
In Hebrew, בטל (batel) translates to 'void' or 'null,' describing something that lacks validity or existence. It is often used in formal contexts, particularly in law and philosophy.
Q.How is בטל used in a sentence?
You might say, 'ההסכם נחשב בטל' which means 'The agreement is considered void.' This demonstrates its application in discussing legal matters.
Q.Is בטל commonly used in everyday conversation?
Although בטל is primarily used in formal or academic settings, you might encounter it in discussions about legality or philosophy. It’s less common in casual conversation.
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