No. 10,288 in Russian
боялись
"Боялись" means "were afraid."
In a sentence
Мы боялись грома и молний.
We were afraid of thunder and lightning.
The word 'боялись' is used here to describe an emotional response (fear) towards a natural phenomenon.
Они боялись говорить правду.
They were afraid to tell the truth.
In this sentence, 'боялись' indicates reluctance or hesitation due to fear regarding communication of the truth.
Раньше мы боялись плавать в глубокой воде.
In the past, we were afraid to swim in deep water.
Here, 'боялись' illustrates a fear or aversion towards a specific activity (swimming in deep water).
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