Is 'korah' a common English word?

No, it is a very low-frequency proper noun, primarily known from the Bible.

Can 'Korah' be used as a verb or adjective?

Not in standard usage. The derived adjective 'Korahite' exists but is highly specialized.

What is the main lesson from the story of Korah?

The story is typically interpreted as a warning against rebellion against God's appointed authority.

Do I need to know this word for general English proficiency?

No. It is a culturally specific reference, not part of the core vocabulary needed for general communication.

korah

Very low

UK/ˈkɔːrə/US/ˈkɔːrə/ or /koʊˈrɑː/

Formal, religious, historical

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Definition

Meaning

A proper noun referring most commonly to a biblical figure: a Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron.

As a proper noun, it primarily references the historical/biblical figure. It can also be found as a personal or place name derived from that figure. There is no standard extended meaning in general English vocabulary.

Linguistics

Semantic Notes

This is a proper noun, not a common English word. Its usage is almost exclusively confined to contexts discussing the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, religious studies, or as a given/surname. It carries strong connotations of rebellion, divine punishment, and seismic events (the earth opening up).

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

No significant difference in usage. Pronunciation may show slight regional variation.

Connotations

Identical connotations rooted in the biblical narrative.

Frequency

Equally rare in both varieties, limited to specific religious or onomastic contexts.

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong

rebellion of KorahKorah's rebellionsons of Korah

medium

like Korahfate of Korah

weak

Korah andKorah in

Grammar

Valency Patterns

[Proper noun] + 's' + rebellion/fate/descendants

Vocabulary

Synonyms

Neutral

rebel leader (biblical context)

Vocabulary

Antonyms

MosesAaronobedient follower

Usage

Context Usage

Business

Not used.

Academic

Used in theology, religious studies, and biblical archaeology.

Everyday

Extremely rare, only among those familiar with the biblical story.

Technical

Not used in general technical fields. May appear in specialized onomastic or theological databases.

Examples

By Part of Speech

adjective

British English

Korahite (pertaining to Korah)

American English

Korahite (pertaining to Korah)

Examples

By CEFR Level

The story of Korah is in the Book of Numbers.

Korah's challenge to Moses' authority resulted in dramatic divine intervention.

Theological interpretations of Korah's rebellion often focus on the perils of challenging divinely instituted hierarchy.

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Think: 'Korah CORED the earth open with his rebellion.'

Conceptual Metaphor

REBELLION IS A FISSURE / REBELLION IS BEING SWALLOWED.

Watch out

Common Pitfalls

Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)

Do not confuse with 'кора' (bark, crust).
It is a transliterated name, not a word with a Russian equivalent meaning.

Common Mistakes

Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a korah').
Mispronouncing the first syllable to rhyme with 'horror'.
Misspelling as 'Kora' without the 'h'.

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap

In the biblical narrative, was swallowed by the earth after leading a revolt.

Multiple Choice

What is 'Korah' primarily known as?

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

: No, it is a very low-frequency proper noun, primarily known from the Bible.
: Not in standard usage. The derived adjective 'Korahite' exists but is highly specialized.
: The story is typically interpreted as a warning against rebellion against God's appointed authority.
: No. It is a culturally specific reference, not part of the core vocabulary needed for general communication.