בתחילה — meaning in English: Initially

batkhila · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for at first / initially

הנמוכים

hanemukhim

לזירה

lezira

וכדומה

vekhadome

היבשת

hayabeshet

בתחילה

batkhila

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neutral common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use 'בתחילה' (batkhila) when recounting stories or explaining the sequence of events, particularly in formal or narrative settings. For instance, in a classroom, a teacher might begin a lesson by saying, 'בתחילה, we will discuss the main concepts before diving deeper.' It is also common in literary contexts, such as in novels when setting the stage for the narrative.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'ראשית' (reshit), which also means 'initially' but carries a more formal or literary tone. 'בתחילה' is often preferred in conversational Hebrew, whereas 'ראשית' might be found in written texts or speeches.

Culture

'בתחילה' (batkhila) has its roots in the Hebrew word 'תחילה' (tchila), meaning 'beginning.' This word is frequently used in religious texts and modern Hebrew, reflecting the importance of beginnings in both daily conversation and spiritual discourse. The phrase has an almost poetic quality, often evoking thoughts of creation and origin, making it a favorite in storytelling.

FAQ

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

'בתחילה' is typically used to indicate the start of an event or process. For example, you can say, 'בתחילה, אני אכין את החומרים' which translates to 'Initially, I will prepare the materials.'

Q.Is 'בתחילה' used in both formal and informal settings?

Yes, 'בתחילה' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a practical word for various situations, from casual conversations to academic discussions.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'בתחילה'?

A common mistake is to confuse 'בתחילה' with 'בהתחלה' (behatkhala), which also means 'initially' but is more informal. It's essential to choose 'בתחילה' for formal contexts and structured narratives.

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