אפשר — meaning in English: Allow

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Guess the translation for Allow

עובד

oved

אדם

adam

מחר

machar

אפשר

efshar

יפה

yafe

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neutral very common

Usage

The word אפשר (efshar) is commonly used in everyday conversations among native Hebrew speakers, especially when discussing permissions or possibilities. For instance, a parent might say to a child, 'אפשר ללכת לחנות' (Is it allowed to go to the store?), or in a business meeting, someone might ask, 'אפשר לשאול שאלה?' (Is it possible to ask a question?)

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'מותאם' (mut'am), which means 'adapted' or 'tailored.' However, while מותאם suggests suitability or customization, אפשר emphasizes permission or feasibility, making it the go-to term when asking about allowances or possibilities.

Culture

The Hebrew word אפשר (efshar) is derived from the root פ-ש-ר, which relates to the concept of possibility. This word reflects the Israeli ethos of flexibility and openness, often encapsulated in phrases like 'אפשר גם אחרת' (there are always alternatives). Interestingly, it plays a significant role in discussions about democracy and personal freedoms in Israeli society.

FAQ

Q.What does אפשר (efshar) mean in English?

The Hebrew word אפשר (efshar) translates to 'allow' or 'possible' in English. It's used to express permission or the feasibility of an action.

Q.How do I use אפשר in a sentence?

You can use אפשר in sentences like 'אפשר להיכנס?' (Is it allowed to enter?) or 'אפשר לשתף את המידע?' (Is it possible to share the information?). It’s versatile for both asking for permission and discussing possibilities.

Q.Are there any mistakes to avoid when using אפשר?

One common mistake is to confuse אפשר with 'צריך' (tzrich), which means 'need' or 'must.' Remember, אפשר is all about permission and possibilities, so use it when discussing what is allowed or feasible.

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