לפעם — meaning in English: For once

lapa'am · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

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עתיד

atid

לפעם

lapa'am

בשיח

besi'akh

בגליל

bagalil

הניח

heni'akh

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informal common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'לפעם' in casual conversations, particularly when expressing a desire for something to happen in a unique or exceptional way. For example, one might say, 'לפעם, אני רוצה שתכין לי ארוחת ערב טובה' (For once, I want you to make me a nice dinner) when playfully urging a friend to step out of their usual cooking routine.

Synonyms & nuances

'לפעם' is similar to the word 'פעם' which means 'once' but lacks the specific emphasis on 'for once' that 'לפעם' carries. You would use 'לפעם' when you want to denote a special occasion or a departure from the norm, whereas 'פעם' can be used in a more general sense.

Culture

'לפעם' has its roots in the Hebrew language, where it literally translates to 'for once' or 'this one time.' It's frequently used in everyday dialogue, reflecting a cultural tendency to emphasize novelty or uniqueness in experiences, hinting at a desire for change or surprise in routine activities. Additionally, it highlights the importance of spontaneity in social interactions in Israeli culture.

FAQ

Q.What does 'לפעם' mean in English?

'לפעם' means 'for once' in English, indicating a desire for something to happen differently or uniquely, often used in informal contexts.

Q.How do I use 'לפעם' in a sentence?

You can use 'לפעם' in sentences where you're expressing a wish for something to be different, like 'לפעם, תעשה את זה כמו שצריך' (For once, do it right).

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'לפעם'?

'לפעם' is often confused with 'פעם'; remember that 'לפעם' emphasizes the idea of doing something uniquely or differently, while 'פעם' is more neutral. Ensure you're using it in the right context to convey the intended meaning.

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