I'm learning
עברית
אז — meaning in English: So
az · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
then
רובן
ruban
ניתנת
nitenet
מכשיר
makhshir (v.)
אז
az
איתו
ito
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use אז (az) during conversations to transition between thoughts or to emphasize a conclusion. For example, in a discussion about plans for the weekend, someone might say, 'אז, מה אנחנו עושים ביום שבת?' (So, what are we doing on Saturday?). It's commonly heard in both casual settings with friends and in more structured environments like meetings.
Synonyms & nuances
While אז (az) means 'so', it can be compared to other connectors like לכן (lachen), which means 'therefore'. The nuance lies in the context; use אז (az) when you want to link ideas more conversationally, while therefore carries a more formal tone, often found in written texts.
Culture
The word אז (az) has its roots in ancient Hebrew texts, where it was frequently used to denote causation or consequence. In modern usage, it reflects a conversational flow that is crucial for connecting ideas, making it a staple in everyday language. Interestingly, the word's flexibility allows it to function as a bridge between thoughts, giving speakers a moment to gather their ideas, which is a common rhetorical strategy globally.
FAQ
