אכלו — meaning in English: Eat

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

Guess the translation for ate (pl.)

הגדמים

hagdamim

אכלו

akhlu

ממשיכים

mamshikhim

כר

kar

רבים

rabim

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informal very common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word אכלו (akhlu) during meals, celebrations, or casual gatherings when discussing food. For instance, a mother might say to her children, 'אכלו את הארוחה שלכם' (Eat your meal) at dinner time, or friends might enthusiastically encourage each other to eat at a festive event.

Synonyms & nuances

While אכלו (akhlu) is the imperative form of 'to eat,' another common word is לאכול (le'echol), which is more neutral and used in broader contexts. You would choose אכלו when directly instructing someone to eat, while לאכול might be preferred when talking about eating in general.

Culture

The verb אכלו (akhlu) derives from the root א-כ-ל, which is associated with consumption and nourishment in Hebrew. Food plays a significant role in Israeli culture, often symbolizing togetherness and hospitality; saying 'אכלו' can evoke feelings of warmth and community during shared meals.

FAQ

Q.How do you conjugate אכלו in different tenses?

The root א-כ-ל is conjugated as follows: אני אוכל (ani okhel) for 'I eat', אתה אוכל (ata okhel) for 'you eat', and היא אוכלת (hi okhelet) for 'she eats'. The imperative form אכלו is specifically used for giving commands.

Q.What are common phrases using אכלו?

Common phrases include 'אכלו את הארוחה' (Eat the meal) or 'אכלו מהקינוח' (Eat some dessert). These phrases are used to encourage others to enjoy food during meals or celebrations.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using אכלו?

A common mistake is using אכלו in formal contexts, where a more polite form may be appropriate. In formal invitations or menus, it's better to use a softer expression like 'נא לאכול' (please eat) instead of directly commanding with אכלו.

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