שאל — meaning in English: Ask

sha'al · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for asked / borrowed (m.s.)

שאל

sha'al

מונה

muna

הקושי

hakoshi

המחאות

hamkha'ot

הלכה

halakha

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers frequently use the word שאל (sha'al) in everyday conversations, especially when they want to gather information or clarify something. For instance, you might hear it in a classroom setting when a student asks the teacher a question or during a casual coffee chat between friends discussing their weekend plans.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym to שאל (sha'al) is לבקש (levakesh), which means 'to request.' While שאל emphasizes the act of asking questions, לבקש leans more towards seeking favors or requests. You would choose שאל when seeking information rather than making a request.

Culture

The Hebrew verb שאל (sha'al) has roots in ancient Semitic languages, reflecting a culture that values inquiry and discussion. In Jewish tradition, asking questions is often encouraged as a means to deepen understanding and engage with texts and teachings, making this word a fundamental part of cultural literacy.

FAQ

Q.How do you use שאל in a sentence?

You can use שאל in various contexts, such as: 'אני רוצה לשאול שאלה' (Ani rotzeh lish'ol she'ela), which means 'I want to ask a question.'

Q.What is the past tense of שאל?

The past tense of שאל is שאלתי (sha'alti) for 'I asked.' For example, you could say 'שאלתי את המורה' (Sha'alti et ha-morah), meaning 'I asked the teacher.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using שאל?

A common mistake is confusing שאל with the word לבקש (levakesh). Remember that שאל is specifically for asking questions, while לבקש is for making requests or asking for something.

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