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Search the book for "free words" or phrases that have lost or changed their meaning at

Auschwitz. Some examples are Happy New Year, selection, and faith. Without using
these examples, find five words which have new meanings. Briefly explain their basic
meaning and then the new meaning it took on at Auschwitz. Provide dictionary
definitions to the words before your personal response.

Definition prior to
Auschwitz

Definition in Auschwitz

Once you have thought about how the meaning of words changes based on
circumstances, think deeply about words and their meanings in general. Think about
how loosely we use words when we don't "understand" their true meaning. What impact
can using words flippantly have on relationships? What is more important - the intent
with which words are spoken, or how words are received? Why?

User Natsumi
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1 Answer

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17 votes

Answer:

"Peace" - a state of tranquility and calm

- in Auschwitz, "peace" likely referred to the period of time between selections or the relative calm of the camp in comparison to other parts of the war

"Kind" - having or showing a gentle nature and disposition

- in Auschwitz, "kind" likely referred to acts of compassion or humanity within the camp, often in contrast to the cruel treatment of the guards and officials

"Safe" - free from danger or threat

- in Auschwitz, "safe" likely referred to being protected from immediate harm, such as being assigned to a less brutal work detail or being spared from a selection

"Work" - activity involving mental or physical effort

- in Auschwitz, "work" often referred to forced labor and strenuous tasks, often under inhumane conditions, as a means of punishment or extermination

"Home" - a place where one lives permanently

- in Auschwitz, "home" likely referred to the barracks where prisoners were housed, often overcrowded and unsanitary, and where they had little control over their own lives and conditions.

The meaning of words can change greatly based on the context and circumstances in which they are used. In the case of Auschwitz, words that would normally have positive connotations took on dark and sinister meanings. Using words flippantly or without understanding their true meaning can have a negative impact on relationships, as it can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication. In such cases, the intent with which words are spoken may not matter as much as how they are received. It is important to consider the context and circumstances in which words are used in order to avoid misunderstandings and communicate effectively.

User Daniel Adepoju
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2.8k points