לשרת — meaning in English: to serve

Usage

Native speakers of Hebrew commonly use 'לשרת' (lesharet) in various situations, especially in contexts involving service roles, such as in restaurants or during military service. For example, a waiter might say, 'אני משרת לקוחות' (I serve customers) or a soldier may refer to their duty by stating, 'אני משרת בצה"ל' (I serve in the IDF).

Synonyms & nuances

'לשרת' (lesharet) specifically emphasizes the act of serving someone or something, often in a formal or professional capacity. In contrast, the word 'לעבוד' (la'avod), meaning 'to work,' is broader and can refer to any kind of employment or labor, making 'לשרת' a better choice when discussing roles focused on providing a service.

Culture

'לשרת' (lesharet) has roots in the biblical Hebrew, where it appears numerous times in the context of serving God or the community. This word not only evokes the notion of service in a physical sense but also carries a deeper significance, reflecting the cultural value placed on community and duty in Israeli society, whether in professional or volunteer settings.

FAQ