לקרא — meaning in English: To read

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

Guess the translation for to read / to call

התענית

hit'aneta

מחשבת

makhshevet

לקרא

likro

מספרים

misfarim

פעולה

pe'ula

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use the word לקרא (likro) in everyday contexts such as reading books, newspapers, or even street signs. For instance, a parent might say to their child, 'לך לקרא ספר לפני השינה' (Go read a book before bed), highlighting its usage in both familial and educational settings.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is קריאה (kri'ah), which specifically means 'reading' as an act or process. While לקרא (likro) denotes the action of 'to read', קריאה (kri'ah) often refers to the reading itself, such as when someone might say, 'קריאה היא חשובה' (Reading is important). Choose לקרא when emphasizing the act of reading.

Culture

The word לקרא (likro) is derived from the root 'ק-ר-א', which relates to reading and calling in Hebrew. Historically, the act of reading has been central to Jewish culture, especially in the study of sacred texts like the Torah, making this word not just a simple action but a gateway to deep cultural and spiritual engagement.

FAQ

Q.How do you conjugate לקרא in the past tense?

In the past tense, לקרא (likro) changes to קראתי (karati) for 'I read,' קראת (karat) for 'you read' (masculine), and קראה (kara'a) for 'she read.' Conjugation will depend on the subject pronoun used.

Q.Can לקרא be used for reading aloud?

Yes, לקרא (likro) can be used in contexts where reading aloud is involved, as it encompasses both silent and vocal reading. For example, a teacher might say, 'לקרא את השיר בקול' (Read the song out loud).

Q.What are common phrases that use לקרא?

Common phrases include 'לקרא ספר' (to read a book) and 'לקרא עיתון' (to read a newspaper). These phrases are widely used in daily conversation and are essential for language learners.

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