מעט — meaning in English: A little

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

Guess the translation for a little / a few

נמלטו

nimletu

הסיר

hesir

התייחסות

hityakhasut

מעט

me'at

בשמו

bishmo

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neutral common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use 'מעט' in both casual and formal conversations when discussing quantities or amounts. For instance, you might hear it when ordering food at a restaurant, such as asking for 'מעט מלח' (a little salt), or when discussing someone's work effort, saying they did 'מעט' more than expected.

Synonyms & nuances

'מעט' can be compared to 'קצת' (kzat), which also means 'a little,' but 'מעט' carries a more formal and nuanced connotation. You might choose 'מעט' in a professional setting, while 'קצת' feels more casual, suited for everyday conversations among friends.

Culture

'מעט' has its roots in ancient Hebrew, where it signified a small quantity, reflecting the communal lifestyle of early Israelites who often had to share resources. In contemporary usage, it embodies a sense of modesty and humility, often appearing in phrases that express gratitude or appreciation, such as 'מעט יותר' (a little more).

FAQ

Q.What does 'מעט' mean in Hebrew?

'מעט' means 'a little' in Hebrew, and it is used to describe small quantities or amounts in various contexts, from food to effort.

Q.How do you use 'מעט' in a sentence?

You can use 'מעט' in sentences like 'אני רוצה מעט מים' (I want a little water) or 'הוא עשה מעט עבודה' (He did a little work). It's versatile and can fit many situations.

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'מעט'?

One common mistake is using 'מעט' when a larger quantity is implied. Ensure it aligns with the context; for example, don't say 'מעט אנשים' (a little people) when referring to a significant crowd.

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