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עברית
לעצמו — meaning in English: himself
le'atsmo · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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for himself
אמות
amut
בנוגע
benoge'a
שעליהם
she'aleihem
לעצמו
le'atsmo
לשיר
lashir
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'לעצמו' (le'atsmo) in everyday conversations when referring to actions someone does for or by themselves, such as in phrases like 'He bought a gift for himself.' It’s commonly used in both casual and more serious discussions, particularly when highlighting autonomy or self-care.
Synonyms & nuances
'לעצמו' (le'atsmo) is synonymous with 'על עצמו' (al atzmo), which also means 'for himself'. However, 'לעצמו' carries a stronger connotation of doing something independently, while 'על עצמו' can suggest a more passive state of being. You might choose 'לעצמו' when emphasizing active personal choices.
Culture
The word 'לעצמו' (le'atsmo) reflects a notion of self-identity and individualism in Hebrew culture. It’s interesting to note that the concept of doing something for oneself has deep roots in Jewish traditions, where self-reflection is often encouraged, especially during rituals like Yom Kippur, where individuals engage in introspection. This word embodies the balance between personal responsibility and self-care.
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