I'm learning עברית

העלילה — meaning in English: The plot

ha'alila · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for the plot / the deed / the libel / the false charge
חופשי
khofshi
העלילה
ha'alila
לרוח
leru'akh
מוצגים
mutsagim
יחדיו
yakhdav
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use the word העלילה (ha'alila) in discussions about literature, film, and storytelling. For example, during a book club meeting, one might ask, 'What did you think of the העלילה in the novel?' or in a film critique, someone might analyze the film's העלילה to discuss its effectiveness.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for העלילה is סיפור (sipur), meaning 'story.' However, העלילה specifically refers to the plot structure and sequence of events, while סיפור encompasses the entire narrative, including themes and characters. One would choose העלילה when focusing on the mechanics of the story rather than on the broader narrative context.
Culture
The term העלילה (ha'alila) has its roots in the Hebrew word עלילה, which means 'to plot' or 'to scheme.' This word has evolved over time, and in contemporary Hebrew, it is often used in both formal critiques of artistic works and casual conversations among friends discussing the cinema. Its versatility reflects the rich narrative culture in Israel, where storytelling is a vital aspect of both literature and oral traditions.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word העלילה mean in English?
The Hebrew word העלילה (ha'alila) translates to 'the plot' in English. It refers specifically to the arrangement of events in a narrative.
Q.How is העלילה used in everyday conversation?
In everyday conversation, העלילה is used to discuss the main events of a story, whether in books, movies, or plays. You might say, 'The העלילה of this show is really captivating!'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using the word העלילה?
A common mistake is confusing העלילה with סיפור. While both relate to narratives, העלילה specifically denotes the plot, whereas סיפור refers to the complete story, including characters and themes.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words