בניין \ בִּנְיָן
binyanmasculine
The English word "building" is translated into Hebrew as בניין \ בִּנְיָן (binyan).
בניין \ בִּנְיָן is a masculine noun used to refer to a closed structure with walls and a roof.
Meaning: closed structure with walls and a roof (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word בניין is derived from the root ב–נ–ה, which relates to the act of building or constructing.
Which one should you use?
While בניין refers specifically to a building, the word מבנה is a more general term for a structure.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of בניין is בניינים.
How do you pronounce it?
binyan
Did you know?
- In Hebrew grammar, the word בניין is not just a noun, but it also describes a specific pattern or 'template' of a verb. This 'building' refers to the logical framework of how a root is used to create different meanings.
- The Hebrew word בניין shares a common origin with the Arabic word بُنْيَان, highlighting the deep linguistic connection between the two languages.
- In certain religious or poetic contexts, a 'building' can be a metaphor for the human body or the soul, suggesting that a person is a constructed, sacred entity.
Examples in context
- הבתים ברחוב זה מיוחדים בארכיטקטורה שלהם.The buildings on this street are unique in their architecture.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “building” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries בניין, CC BY-SA 4.0.
