Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

Gwynn E.B1Kwiziq community member

Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

This question relates to:French lesson "Using le, la, l', les with continents, countries & regions names (definite articles)"

Asked 6 years ago

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CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect 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!

Like06 years ago

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).

Like06 years ago

Gwynn E. asked:View original

Why is Israel in effect neutral gender?

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