עולם — meaning in English: world

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

Guess the translation for world / universe

עולם

olam

האשמה

ha'ashma

בסטודיו

bastudio

הפרדות

hafradot

וקבע

vekava

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word 'עולם' (olam) in various contexts, such as discussing the physical world, expressing philosophical ideas, or referring to a community or domain, like the world of art. For instance, in a conversation about environmental issues, someone might say, 'אנו צריכים לדאוג לעולם שלנו' (We need to take care of our world).

Synonyms & nuances

While 'עולם' (olam) generally means 'world', a close synonym is 'כדור הארץ' (kadur haaretz) which specifically means 'Earth'. You would use 'עולם' in broader contexts, such as philosophy or culture, whereas 'כדור הארץ' is more scientific and literal.

Culture

'עולם' (olam) has deep cultural and historical significance in Jewish thought, often referring to both the physical universe and conceptual realms like spirituality. Interestingly, the word is derived from the root 'ע-ל-ם' which relates to the concept of 'hidden' or 'concealed', reflecting the mystery of existence itself.

FAQ

Q.What does the Hebrew word 'עולם' mean?

'עולם' (olam) means 'world' in English. It can refer to the physical world, spiritual realms, or various domains of life, depending on the context.

Q.How do you use 'עולם' in a sentence?

You can use 'עולם' in sentences like 'העולם שלנו זקוק לשינויים' (Our world needs changes) to discuss global issues or community matters.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'עולם'?

A common mistake is confusing 'עולם' with 'כדור הארץ' (Earth). Remember, 'עולם' is broader and can encompass various meanings beyond just the planet itself.

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