This is the 29th most frequent Russian word.
же
The Russian word "же" is a particle used for emphasis, contrast, or to enhance the meaning of a sentence, roughly translating to "the very," "after all," "same," or "indeed" in English, depending on context.
In this instance, "же" is used to intensify the question, adding emphasis or a sense of insistence.
Почему же ты не пришёл вчера?
Why didn't you come yesterday?
Here, "же" is used as part of an expression meaning 'the same', clarifying the identity or similarity.
Это тот же человек, которого я видел утром.
This is the same person I saw in the morning.
In this sentence, "же" conveys encouragement or urgency, emphasizing the imperative mood.