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תנו — meaning in English: Give it

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

Guess the translation for give (pl. imperative)
תנו
tnu
קפטן
kepten
חילק
khilek
השתנה
hishtana
ממעל
mima'al
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informal very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'תנו' (tnu) in casual conversations when making a request or giving an instruction, such as asking someone to hand over an item during a gathering or a meal. It's also commonly heard among teachers asking students to pass something along or give their attention.
Synonyms & nuances
'תנו' (tnu) is often used in direct requests, while a synonym like 'העבירו' (he'eviru) means 'pass it' and is used more to suggest transferring an item rather than simply giving it. Choosing 'תנו' conveys a more personal and immediate request.
Culture
'תנו' is derived from the Hebrew root 'נתן' (natan), which means 'to give.' This word reflects the communal and generous spirit found in Israeli culture, where sharing and giving are deeply valued. It’s interesting to note that this term can both imply a literal act of giving and a more metaphorical sense of sharing ideas or experiences.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'תנו' mean?
'תנו' translates to 'give it' in English and is commonly used in informal settings to request something from someone.
Q.How do you use 'תנו' in a sentence?
You might say, 'תנו לי את הספר' which means 'Give me the book.' It's a straightforward way to ask for something directly.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'תנו'?
One common mistake is using 'תנו' in overly formal situations. While it’s a friendly command, in formal contexts, you might choose a more polite phrase like 'אנא תן לי' (ana ten li), which means 'please give me.'
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