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לשבת — meaning in English: to sit down

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

Guess the translation for to sit down
לשבת
lashevet
להוציא
lehotzi
וזה
veze
הכסף
hakesef
פה
po
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'לשבת' (lashevet) in everyday conversation when discussing activities that involve sitting, such as during meals, meetings, or social gatherings. For instance, you might hear it when inviting someone to join you at the table or when discussing plans to relax at home.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'לשבת' specifically refers to the act of sitting down, another Hebrew word 'נח' (nach) means to rest or relax, which can encompass sitting but also includes lying down or pausing in other activities. You'd choose 'לשבת' when specifically referring to taking a seat, such as at a café or during a meeting.
Culture
'לשבת' has its roots in the ancient Hebrew language, where sitting was not just a physical act but also a symbol of rest and contemplation. In many cultures, including Israeli society, the act of sitting together during meals or gatherings reflects community and connection, underscoring the word's significance beyond its literal meaning.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'לשבת' in different tenses?
'לשבת' conjugates as follows: 'יושב' (yoshev) for present tense, 'ישב' (yashev) for past tense, and 'ישב' (yeshev) for future tense in masculine singular form. The conjugation changes based on the subject's gender and number.
Q.Can 'לשבת' be used in a figurative sense?
Yes, 'לשבת' can be used figuratively to mean to settle down or to establish oneself in a particular situation, such as 'לשבת במקום חדש' (to sit in a new place) meaning to settle in a new area.
Q.What is a common mistake learners make with 'לשבת'?
A common mistake is confusing 'לשבת' with 'ישב' (yashev) which is the past tense form. Learners should remember that 'לשבת' is the infinitive form, while 'ישב' should be used when speaking about past actions.
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