Streetwise Hebrew

Shoulda Coulda Woulda

Hebrew has this interesting structure: Verb “haya” (past tense of “to be”) plus a conjugated verb in the present, like “hayiti holech.”

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Be’Ezrat Ha-Shem: A Helping Hand With Your Hebrew

An “ozer” is an “assistant,” but could also mean “he’s helping” – a verb in the present tense. How are you supposed to know which one it is?

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“Amud”: A Pole of Good Standing

Host Guy Sharett teaches us the important Hebrew words that come from the root “ע.מ.ד” including “la’amod” – “to stand.”

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May Every Day Be a Streetwise Day!

In English, wishing someone a good day is so easy. But in Hebrew, you have to take into account a few different things, like gender for instance.

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In Case of Emergency, Call Streetwise Hebrew

Many things “happen” here in the Holy Land, which is why the root “kara” – ק.ר.ה – with all its derivatives, is so popular.

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Please Press Pound. You’re on Ma’ane Koli

Today we’ll learn words and phrases you’ll hear on the phone while on hold, plus a tip how to quickly reach a real live customer service rep.

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‘Teomim’: The Best Things Come in Pairs

‘Teomim’ are twins, from the root תאמ. This Hebrew root is also used for things relating to matching, fitting, coordinating and more. Mat’im lachem?

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Which Way to the ‘Sherutim’?

The Hebrew word ‘sherut’ means ‘service,’ but the plural – ‘sherutim’ – is more commonly used to mean something quite different

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Mistakes That Make Israelis Cringe

How come some mistakes in a foreign language sound worse than others? Some things Hebrew learners say sound more grating to the Israeli ear than others.

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Safety, Security, and a Bit of Self-Confidence

“Betach” or “batu’ach” – “sure” or “for sure” – are words we hear a lot on the Israeli streets, so we need to know how to use them properly.

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