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עברית
מכיר — meaning in English: Know
mekir · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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recognizes / familiar with (m.s.)
חפצי
kheftsei
מכיר
mekir
הקרוי
hakarui
קדם
kadam
התנהגותו
hitnahaguto
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neutral
common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word מכיר (mekir) in both casual and professional settings. For example, you may hear it in conversations like, 'I know that person' (אני מכיר את האדם הזה), or in a business meeting when discussing familiarity with a client or a topic. The word conveys not just recognition but also a level of understanding or acquaintance.
Synonyms & nuances
While מכיר (mekir) specifically denotes knowing someone or something personally, another word, יודע (yodea), translates to 'know' in a more general sense, such as facts or information. You would choose מכיר when discussing familiarity or personal connections, while יודע is more appropriate for knowledge-based contexts.
Culture
The word מכיר (mekir) shares roots with the Hebrew root 'י-ד-ע' which means 'to know.' In Jewish culture, knowledge is highly valued, and this word often implies a deeper connection than just surface familiarity. Interestingly, the concept of knowing someone in Hebrew can also extend to emotional connections, reflecting the importance of relationships in the culture.
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