Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

Gwynn E.B1Kwiziq community member

Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

Asked 6 years ago
CécileKwiziq team memberCorrect answer

Hi Gwynn,

Israel's long form in French is 'l'Etat d' Israel’ which is a bit long so that may be the reason for shortening to Israël!

Islands and groups of islands don't have an article either...

e.g. Cuba, Haïti, Chypre (Cyprus)

Hope this helps!

Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

You mean, why it doesn't take an article? Good question. I am also waiting for Aurélies answer. But I'm afraid that there probably isn't a good reason except for "that's how it is".

-- Chris (not a native speaker).

Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

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