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לדבר — meaning in English: Speak

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

Guess the translation for spoke (m.s.) / commandment
לדבר
diber
לחשוף
lakhsof
מהוות
mehavot
ממלכת
mamlekhet
בבשר
babasar
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use 'לדבר' (diber) in various situations, from casual conversations among friends to more formal discussions in educational or professional settings. For instance, you might hear it at a family dinner when someone is encouraging another to 'speak' about their day, or in a classroom where a teacher asks students to 'speak' up during a lesson.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'לדבר' is the general term for 'speak,' the word 'שוחח' (shohach) implies a more conversational or intimate exchange, often used in the context of discussing personal matters. You would opt for 'לדבר' in everyday situations, whereas 'שוחח' might be chosen for deeper, more meaningful conversations.
Culture
'לדבר' has roots in the Semitic language family, with connections to other words related to communication across various languages. In Hebrew culture, the act of speaking is often seen as an essential social skill, reflecting the importance of dialogue and exchange in community life. Additionally, it plays a significant role in religious texts, where divine communication is a recurring theme.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'לדבר' in the past tense?
'לדבר' is conjugated in the past tense as 'דיברתי' (dibarti) for 'I spoke,' 'דיברת' (dibarta) for 'you spoke,' and 'דיבר' (diber) for 'he spoke.' The conjugation varies by gender and number, so it's helpful to learn the patterns.
Q.Can 'לדבר' be used in both formal and informal contexts?
Yes, 'לדבר' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal situations. Whether you are discussing a topic in a meeting or chatting with friends, this word fits seamlessly.
Q.What are some common phrases using 'לדבר'?
Common phrases include 'לדבר על' (to talk about) and 'לדבר עם' (to talk with). These phrases are frequently used in everyday conversation, making them essential for effective communication.
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