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מעשה — meaning in English: act

ma'ase · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for deed / story / tale
אהיה
eheye
שמות
shemot
להחלטה
lahakhlata
מעשה
ma'ase
השלמה
hashlama
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word מעשה (ma'ase) in both everyday conversations and formal discussions. For example, in legal contexts, one might refer to a מעשה as an act of law, while in casual settings, it could describe an action taken in daily life, such as helping a friend or completing a task.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym to מעשה is פעולה (pe'ula), which means 'action' but is often used in more casual contexts. While פעולה can refer to any action, מעשה implies a sense of deliberateness and can denote moral weight, making it preferable in discussions about ethics or important deeds.
Culture
The Hebrew word מעשה (ma'ase) has its roots in biblical texts, where it often refers to acts of creation or significant actions undertaken by individuals. This word carries a weight of responsibility and intention, highlighting the cultural emphasis on actions and their moral implications within Jewish teachings, especially in the context of ethical behavior and mitzvot (commandments).
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word מעשה mean?
The Hebrew word מעשה (ma'ase) translates to 'act' in English. It refers to a deed or action, often carrying implications of intention and morality.
Q.How do you use מעשה in a sentence?
You can use מעשה in sentences like 'המעשה שלו היה נועז' (His act was bold) or 'יש לה מעשה טוב לעשות' (She has a good deed to do).
Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word מעשה?
A common mistake is confusing מעשה with פעולה; while both mean 'action', מעשה carries a more serious connotation, so it’s best used when discussing ethical or significant actions.
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