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אילו — meaning in English: which

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Guess the translation for which (pl.)
לחברה
lekhevra
בבת
bevat [akhat]
לפחות
lefakhot
לחיסול
lekhisul
אילו
elu
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use 'אילו' in various situations, such as in casual conversations when discussing choices or options, like 'Which book do you prefer?' (אילו ספר אתה מעדיף?). It is also employed in more formal contexts, such as academic discussions or presentations to specify options among a list, making it a versatile choice.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'איזה' (eize), which also means 'which' but is typically used when referring to a specific item from a known set. 'אילו' is more commonly used in hypothetical contexts, while 'איזה' is appropriate for direct inquiries about tangible choices.
Culture
'אילו' has its roots in Biblical Hebrew, where it was used to introduce hypothetical situations. Interestingly, it is often found in questions that require a decision or preference, reflecting the importance of choice in Israeli culture, which values individual opinion and expression.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word אילו mean?
'אילו' means 'which' in English and is used to inquire about specific options or choices.
Q.How do you use אילו in a sentence?
You can use 'אילו' to ask about preferences, such as 'אילו צבעים אתה אוהב?' (Which colors do you like?).
Q.Is אילו used in formal writing?
'אילו' can be used in both spoken and written Hebrew, making it suitable for formal contexts, especially when discussing hypothetical scenarios.
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