למטה — meaning in English: down

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Guess the translation for down

למטה

lematah

לקרוא

likro

חלק

chelek

עשינו

asinu

מישהי

mishehi

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'למטה' (lematah) when giving directions, such as telling someone to go down a staircase or to describe the position of an object, like saying a book is down on the table. It’s frequently used in everyday conversations, whether in casual settings with friends or while navigating the city.

Synonyms & nuances

'למטה' can be compared to 'תחת' (tachat), which also means 'down' but typically refers to a position that is underneath or below something. While 'למטה' is more about the direction or movement downward, 'תחת' has a stronger implication of being beneath something physically.

Culture

'למטה' is derived from the root word 'מטה' which relates to lowering or descending. In Hebrew culture, the concept of 'down' can also symbolize humility and grounding, reflecting a broader philosophical view of life that values modesty and simplicity. This duality enriches the word's usage in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

FAQ

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

'למטה' can be used in sentences like 'הספר נמצא למטה על השולחן' (The book is down on the table), indicating the position of an object in relation to another.

Q.Are there any common phrases that include 'למטה'?

Yes! A common phrase is 'לרדת למטה' (laredet lematah), which means 'to go down.' You might hear this when someone is instructing you to descend stairs or an elevator.

Q.What are some common mistakes when using 'למטה'?

A frequent mistake is using 'למטה' in contexts where 'תחת' (tachat) would be more appropriate. For instance, saying 'החתול ישן למטה' (The cat is sleeping down) may sound awkward; it would be more natural to say 'החתול ישן תחת השולחן' (The cat is sleeping under the table).

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