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עברית
שמו — meaning in English: His name
samu · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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placed / put (pl.)
למול
lamol
שמו
samu
מרכזית
merkazit
קרובות
krovot
במדויק
bimduyak
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use 'שמו' in everyday conversation when discussing someone's identity or background. For instance, you might hear it in a casual setting when asking about a new friend: 'מה שמו?' (What's his name?). It's also common in more formal situations, such as in introductions or official documents, where one might state, 'שמו של העדים' (the name of the witness).
Synonyms & nuances
'שמו' specifically denotes 'his name' and is used in a masculine context. A close synonym is 'שמה' (sh'ma), which means 'her name', used for feminine references. The subtle difference lies in the gender of the subject being discussed, making it crucial to choose the correct form based on the individual in question.
Culture
The word 'שמו' is derived from the Hebrew root 'ש-מ-ע' which relates to names and fame. In Jewish tradition, names are seen as powerful and carry significant meaning, often reflecting one's destiny or character. In many cultural contexts, knowing someone's name is considered a sign of respect and acknowledgment, highlighting its importance in social interactions.
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