I'm learning עברית

אילו — meaning in English: which

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

Guess the translation for if
כבלתי
kevilti
אילו
ilu
ובמספר
uvmispar
מוסר
moser
צורתו
tsurato
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word אילו when asking questions about choices or options, such as in conversations about travel plans or shopping. For example, one might say, 'אילו מסעדות אתה מעדיף?' which translates to 'Which restaurants do you prefer?' This word is also frequently used in academic discussions where precise differentiation is necessary.
Synonyms & nuances
While the word 'איזה' (pronounced: eizeh) also means 'which', אילו is often preferred in contexts where multiple items are being selected or specified. Choosing אילו over איזה can convey a more formal or precise tone, particularly in writing.
Culture
The word אילו has its roots in Biblical Hebrew, where it was used to express choices or distinctions. It embodies a sense of inquiry and differentiation that is foundational in Hebrew discourse, reflecting the culture's emphasis on clarity and precise communication. Interestingly, it often appears in conditional statements, showcasing its versatility in both everyday and formal contexts.
FAQ
Q.What does אילו mean in English?
The Hebrew word אילו translates to 'which' in English. It is used to ask questions about choices or options among a defined set.
Q.How do I use אילו in a sentence?
You can use אילו in questions such as 'אילו ספרים קראת?' which means 'Which books have you read?' It's a great way to inquire about specific preferences.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using אילו?
One common mistake is confusing אילו with איזה. While both mean 'which,' אילו tends to be used for choices from a larger set or in a more formal context, while איזה is more casual.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words