כמעט — meaning in English: almost

kim'at · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for almost

ירדה

yarda

כמעט

kim'at

משק

mashak

lase'ar

כותרת

koteret

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'כמעט' (kim'at) in various everyday situations, such as when discussing plans, expressing uncertainty, or recounting experiences. For example, one might say, 'I almost finished my homework,' or 'We were almost late to the movie.' It's a versatile word employed in both casual conversations and more serious discussions.

Synonyms & nuances

'כמעט' (kim'at) is often compared to 'בערך' (be'erech), meaning 'approximately.' While both express a sense of nearing a point, 'כמעט' usually conveys a closer proximity to an outcome, while 'בערך' implies a broader estimation. Choose 'כמעט' when you want to suggest a near-completion or near-fulfillment.

Culture

'כמעט' (kim'at) is derived from the root 'ק-מ-ע,' which relates to proximity or closeness. In Israeli culture, expressing approximation is quite common, reflecting a laid-back attitude towards life's uncertainties. This word often finds its way into anecdotes, such as when someone shares a near-miss story, emphasizing the human experience of falling just short of a goal.

FAQ

Q.What does 'כמעט' mean in English?

'כמעט' translates to 'almost' in English, indicating something that is very close to happening or being true but hasn't quite occurred.

Q.How do you use 'כמעט' in a sentence?

You can use 'כמעט' in various contexts, such as 'אני כמעט סיימתי את הספר' (I almost finished the book). It's often placed before the verb to indicate proximity.

Q.Are there common mistakes with 'כמעט'?

A common mistake is using it with a verb in the past tense without proper context. For example, saying 'כמעט הייתי' (I almost was) can cause confusion; instead, clarify what you almost did to provide more context.

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