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דברים — meaning in English: Stuff

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

Guess the translation for Stuff
דברים
dvarim
בעיר
be'ir
הדברים
hadvarim
עלי
ali
יפה
yafe
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neutral very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word 'דברים' (dvarim) in everyday conversations to refer to various items or topics, be it physical objects or abstract concepts. For example, someone might say, 'אני צריך לקנות דברים חדשים לבית' (I need to buy stuff for the house) when discussing shopping, or use it in a more abstract context like 'יש הרבה דברים לדבר עליהם' (There are many things to talk about) during a discussion.
Synonyms & nuances
'דברים' can be compared to the word 'חפצים' (chafetzim), which specifically means 'objects' or 'items.' While 'דברים' can refer to both tangible and intangible things, 'חפצים' is confined to physical items. Therefore, you'd choose 'דברים' when discussing a wide range of subjects or ideas.
Culture
'דברים' has its roots in Biblical Hebrew, where it appears frequently, often referring to 'words' or 'matters.' This highlights the word's evolution from a focus on verbal communication to a broader application encompassing physical items or concepts, reflecting the dynamic nature of language in everyday life. The casualness of the term makes it a staple in both formal and informal settings, showcasing its versatility.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'דברים' mean?
'דברים' translates to 'stuff' or 'things' in English and is commonly used in various contexts to denote both physical items and abstract concepts.
Q.Can I use 'דברים' in formal writing?
While 'דברים' is generally neutral, it is more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, you might want to use more specific terms to convey your meaning.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'דברים'?
A common mistake is using 'דברים' too broadly in formal discussions. Ensure that the context fits—if you're discussing specific topics or objects, consider using more precise language.
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