Hejira

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Hejira" is correct and usable in written English, particularly in contexts related to Islamic history or literature.
You can use it when referring to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, or in a broader sense, to describe a journey or escape. Example: "The Hejira marks a significant turning point in Islamic history, symbolizing the establishment of a new community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Many Muslims resorted to migration as a form of resistance, a tactic known as the hejira, in which those perceived as infidels are avoided.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hijrah, also spelled Hejira or Hijra ("Flight" or "Emigration"), Latin Hegira, the Prophet Muhammad's migration (622 ce) from Mecca to Medina in order to escape persecution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With Hejira (1976) and Don Juan's Reckless Daughter (1977), she continued to disregard commercial considerations, while Mingus (1979) was considered by many as beyond the pale.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The emotional depth of Joni Mitchell's 1971 album "Blue" established a new standard for personal songwriting, attaining an artistry that Mitchell refined in a handful of influential records, culminating with "Hejira," in 1976.

The New Yorker

I can't even claim to be writing about that superior type of muso epiphany which would at least have the good taste to settle upon one of the "minor" albums that Joni herself seems to prefer: "Hejira" or "The Hissing of Summer Lawns".

The New Yorker

But Mr. Hejira said Morocco was on track to meet its goal of a slum-free country by 2012 if all partners in the program continued to work together.

The New York Times

Over time, though, the best of these often slow and brooding songs – Hejira, Amelia, Blue Motel Room – have kept calling me back despite my slight aversion to Jaco Pastorius's relentlessly virtuoso bass playing.

The Guardian - Music

Hejira could only end like this: a paean to the life of self-exile that ends with a dizzying zoom out and in again as a service station provides Mitchell with the opportunity to casually, momentarily widen her scope to the cosmic before splashing water on her face and setting off.

The Guardian - Music

After the richness of Hissing, the mood poems of Hejira seemed to me for a long time to be a muted coda to Mitchell's golden period.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Out of Sight" (1998) An uncredited appearance as Hejira Henry, the deus ex breakout artist at the end.

The New York Times

"It was a priority of the nation because the slums were a black stain on Morocco," said Ahmed Taoufiq Hejira, the housing minister.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing Joni Mitchell's album, ensure clarity by specifying that you are referring to the album "Hejira" by Joni Mitchell.

Common error

Avoid using "Hejira" casually to describe any journey; it primarily refers to a specific historical event or Joni Mitchell's album. Using it in other contexts can be confusing or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The noun "Hejira" primarily functions as a proper noun when referring to the specific historical event of Muhammad's migration. It also functions as a common noun when referring to Joni Mitchell's album, as seen in Ludwig's examples from The Guardian and The New York Times.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "Hejira" is correctly used in English primarily to refer to the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina or to Joni Mitchell's 1976 album. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is usable in written English, particularly in relevant historical or artistic contexts. While not frequently used in everyday conversation, its usage is common in news, media, and encyclopedia sources. When using "Hejira", ensure clarity by specifying the context to avoid confusion. Consider alternatives like "migration" or "exodus" if the specific historical or artistic reference is not intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Migration

Refers to a general movement from one place to another, lacking the specific historical context of "Hejira".

Exodus

Implies a mass departure or emigration, often with a sense of urgency or liberation, different from the specific historical event.

Flight

Suggests a hurried escape from danger or persecution, a narrower scope than the historical and artistic usages of "Hejira".

Emigration

Focuses on leaving one's country to settle in another, without the religious or artistic connotations.

Journey

A more general term for travel, lacking the historical significance or artistic association.

Relocation

Implies a planned move, often for practical reasons, differing from the forced or inspired nature of "Hejira".

Departure

A simple act of leaving, devoid of the cultural and historical weight.

Displacement

Conveys being forced from one's home, typically due to conflict or disaster, a more negative connotation.

Great Escape

Suggests a daring or adventurous flight, a more sensationalized version.

Mass Movement

Implies a large-scale migration of people, losing the individual or artistic focus.

FAQs

What is the historical significance of "Hejira"?

The "Hejira" refers to the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, a pivotal event in the establishment of Islam.

How is "Hejira" used in the context of music?

"Hejira" is the title of a 1976 album by Joni Mitchell, known for its introspective lyrics and jazz-influenced sound.

Are there alternative terms for "Hejira" when referring to migration?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use "migration", "exodus", or "flight" as alternatives to "Hejira", although these terms may lack the specific religious or artistic connotations.

Is "Hejira" a common term in everyday conversation?

No, "Hejira" is not a commonly used term in everyday conversation. It is primarily used in historical or musical contexts.