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להסתמך — meaning in English: Relying

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

Guess the translation for to rely / to base oneself on / to refer
הנדסי
handasi
להסתמך
lehistamekh
מדעית
mada'it
שירה
shira
מלך
melekh
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use להסתמך in everyday conversations, especially when discussing trust or dependence on someone or something. For example, one might say 'אני להסתמך על המידע שלך' (I rely on your information) in a business meeting or when making decisions that involve collaboration.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym of להסתמך is לסמוך (lesamekh), which also means to rely. However, לסמוך carries a more personal connotation, often used in emotional contexts, like trusting a friend. In contrast, להסתמך is more commonly used in formal or professional settings.
Culture
The word להסתמך has roots in the Hebrew root סמך, which means to lean or support. This reflects a deeper cultural value in Israeli society, where interdependence and community support are emphasized. The use of this word can evoke a sense of responsibility, underscoring how individuals often rely on one another for both emotional and practical support.
FAQ
Q.What does להסתמך mean in English?
להסתמך translates to 'relying' or 'to rely' in English, indicating dependence on someone or something for support or information.
Q.How do you use להסתמך in a sentence?
You can use להסתמך in a sentence like 'אני לא יכול להסתמך על המידע הזה' (I can't rely on this information), which is useful in discussions about trust.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using להסתמך?
A common mistake is confusing להסתמך with לסמוך. Remember, להסתמך is more formal and often used in specific contexts like business or academic discussions.
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