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לשמש — meaning in English: serve

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Guess the translation for to be used
כהלכה
kahalakha
להשליך
lehashlikh
לשמש
leshamesh
הקרב
hakrav
דרמטי
dramati
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neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use 'לשמש' (leshamesh) in contexts related to service, whether in formal settings such as a workplace or in informal situations like volunteering. For instance, you might hear it when discussing someone's role in a community organization or when referring to a waiter serving food in a restaurant.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 'לשמש' is 'שרת' (sharot), which also means 'to serve.' However, 'שרת' often implies a more subordinate role, such as serving a master or in a military context, whereas 'לשמש' can apply more broadly to any serving function.
Culture
'לשמש' has its roots in the ancient Hebrew language, where it also means 'to serve' or 'to function.' The word is often associated with service in various spheres of life, including religious contexts, where serving a community is highly valued. This reflects a cultural ethos where helping others is seen as a fundamental responsibility.
FAQ
Q.What does 'לשמש' mean in English?
'לשמש' translates to 'serve' in English, and is used to describe the act of providing assistance or fulfilling a role. It's applicable in various contexts, from formal duties to everyday tasks.
Q.How do you use 'לשמש' in a sentence?
You can use 'לשמש' in a sentence like 'אני לשמש כמדריך' (Ani leshamesh k'madrich), which means 'I serve as a guide.' This shows how the word can be used to express one's role or function.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'לשמש'?
One common mistake is confusing 'לשמש' with 'לשמור' (lishmor), which means 'to keep' or 'to guard.' Remember that 'לשמש' specifically relates to serving or fulfilling a role, while 'לשמור' has a different focus.
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