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מהר — meaning in English: Faster

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Guess the translation for fast / quickly
הבקר
habakar
הרקיע
haraki'a
באין
be'ein
מהר
maher
לאספה
la'asefa
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informal very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers commonly use 'מהר' in various situations, such as when urging someone to hurry up, like in a conversation among friends trying to catch a bus. It's also frequently heard in casual settings, for instance, when a parent tells a child to finish their homework faster before dinner.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'בזריזות' (be'zerizut), which also means 'quickly.' However, 'מהר' specifically emphasizes the action of hurrying, making it more suitable when prompting urgency as opposed to simply describing a speedy action.
Culture
'מהר' is derived from the root word that conveys the idea of speed and urgency. In Israeli culture, where time often feels scarce due to a fast-paced lifestyle, this word is used regularly. Interestingly, the concept of speed is deeply rooted in Hebrew songs and literature, reflecting a broader societal value placed on efficiency.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'מהר'?
'מהר' is pronounced as 'maher', with the emphasis on the second syllable, making it sound smooth and quick, just like the meaning of the word itself!
Q.Can 'מהר' be used in formal situations?
'מהר' is primarily informal and is best used in casual conversations. In formal contexts, you might replace it with phrases like 'בהקדם' which means 'as soon as possible.'
Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'מהר'?
A common mistake is using 'מהר' with the wrong verb form. It's important to remember that 'מהר' typically modifies actions, so it should be used in contexts where you are directly instructing someone to do something faster, rather than as a standalone statement.
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