Getting to Know Hebrew Verbs

Submitted by Shahar Geva on Wed, 08/31/2011 - 17:15

If you want to move from the basic understanding of certain Hebrew phrases to being able to carry out a whole conversation, you must learn to use Hebrew verbs properly. Learning to apply the verbs appropriate is an important step in learning the language on a deeper level. Verbs are the building blocks of a sentence structure. They convey action, intention or decision which give the sentence its true meaning. Without the use of verbs it is virtually impossible to convey something in a clear way. Sentences without verbs are stripped of an essential element that moves the conversation along. As an experiment, try to convey a message about something that you want to do or receive without using any verbs. You will soon become very aware of how vital verbs are to any language. Therefore, if you wish to be fluent in Hebrew you must learn how to properly use verbs and be able to apply them appropriately and in the right context.

Think of it as building an elaborate structure out of building blocks – first you need to lay down a steady foundation. The basis for a complete sentence in Hebrew is a subject and a verb. Every sentence that is considered a full and correct sentence consists of at least one subject (which could be in a singular or plural form) and a corresponding verb. In Hebrew, the subject precedes the verb in most cases, unlike in English where the verb can as easily come before the subject (e.g. There lies the truth). Understanding this basic structure is essential to conveying a coherent message. If you start here you’re sure to be on the right track to success.

Learn Hebrew with us online

It’s not enough to be able to find a word in a Hebrew dictionary. To really learn the Hebrew language, you must familiarize yourself enough with nouns and verbs to be able to incorporate them properly in a sentence. If you take a Hebrew language course with us, you will learn about the different aspects of the language and how to use each aspect properly. One of the most important things is the practice of the language trough reading, writing and conversation. You will start by learning some basic verbs such as eat or sleep, and how to correctly incorporate them into sentences from simple to complex.

Learn Modern Hebrew Verbs

Let us look at an example with the verb ovedet (f), meaning “work”. In Hebrew each verb has a root, and in this case it is a.v.d. The suffix et indicates that we are using the present tense. The verb will take different forms to adjust to masculine or feminine.

“I work” translates in Hebrew to “ani oved”l (masculine) or “ani ovedet (feminine).

“He works” – “hu oved” (masculine), and “she works” – “he ovedet” (feminine))

“You work” – at ovedet (f,s) / atem ovdim (m,p) / aten ovdot (f,p)

Want to learn more how to use of Hebrew verbs? You are invited to participate in a free Hebrew lesson which will introduce you to the basic principles of the language in a comprehensive way – Learn Hebrew online. We offer dynamic Hebrew lessons on-line in which you as a learner play an active role. Experienced teachers will prompt you to ask questions, read texts, and practice the language during and after the class. How long does it take to learn Hebrew? With our guidance it could be sooner they you’d imagined. But it is also largely up to you – with efforts on your part you’ll soon be able to easily use Hebrew verbs and extend your Hebrew vocabulary beyond the basics.

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