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שאלו — meaning in English: They asked

sha'alu · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for asked / borrowed (pl.)
שליחים
shlikhim
קרבית
kravit
עמים
amim
ניהול
nihul
שאלו
sha'alu
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neutral very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use 'שאלו' in everyday conversations, particularly when discussing past events or seeking information. For example, at a family gathering, someone might say, 'שאלו מה קרה בבית הספר' (They asked what happened at school), indicating an inquiry about a specific situation.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'שאלו' simply means 'they asked', a similar word 'ביקשו' (they requested) might imply a more formal or specific request rather than a general inquiry. You would choose 'שאלו' when referring to casual, open-ended questions.
Culture
'שאלו' comes from the root verb 'שאלה' (to ask), which is pivotal in Hebrew culture as questioning and seeking knowledge is highly valued. In traditional settings, asking questions is often encouraged as a way to deepen understanding and maintain lively discussions, reflecting the communal nature of Hebrew-speaking communities.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of שאלו in English?
'שאלו' translates to 'they asked' in English and is used when referring to a group of people making an inquiry.
Q.How do you pronounce שאלו?
It's pronounced as 'sha'alu', with a subtle emphasis on the second syllable, which is typical in Hebrew pronunciation.
Q.Is שאלו used in formal writing?
'שאלו' is primarily used in spoken language and informal writing. In formal contexts, you might hear 'התבקשו' (they were asked), which sounds more polished.
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