Are you planning a trip to Israel or simply interested in expanding your language skills? Knowing how to say “cheap” in Hebrew can come in handy during various situations. Whether you want to haggle at a local market or ask for the cheapest option at a restaurant, this guide will help you master the word “cheap” in Hebrew.
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Formal Ways to Say “Cheap” in Hebrew
When speaking formally or in professional settings, it’s important to use the appropriate word for “cheap” in Hebrew. Here are a few formal expressions you can use:
- זול (zol): This is the standard formal term for “cheap” in Hebrew. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing the price of an item or the cost of a service.
- משתלם (mishtalem): While “משתלם” technically means “worthwhile” or “profitable”, it is commonly used to convey the sense of something being affordable or cheap. For example, you might say “המסעדה הזאת מציעה מנה טעימה ומשתלמת” (This restaurant offers tasty and affordable food).
- זול במיוחד (zol b’me’od): This phrase translates to “very cheap” or “inexpensive” and is suitable for emphasizing that something is exceptionally affordable.
Informal Ways to Say “Cheap” in Hebrew
Informal expressions are commonly used in everyday conversations among friends or when talking to younger people. Here are some informal ways to say “cheap” in Hebrew:
- זוליק (zolik): This is a colloquial term for “cheap” in Hebrew. It is often used when talking casually and can convey a friendlier tone.
- חצי דרך (chatzi derech): Literally meaning “halfway”, this expression is used to describe something that is affordable or inexpensive.
- זול מדי (zol meod): This colloquial phrase translates to “too cheap.”It is often used when something is considered too inexpensive or of low quality.
Regional Variations in Saying “Cheap” in Hebrew
The Hebrew language can vary slightly between different regions in Israel. While the previous terms are generally understood throughout the country, here are a few regional variations:
Jerusalem Dialect
- שְׁטוּחִי (shtuḥi): Used in the Jerusalem dialect to mean “cheap”.
Northen Dialect (Haifa, Galilee)
- דַיּווּקִית (dayyuvkit): Commonly used in the region to refer to something that is cheap or inexpensive.
TIP: When it comes to regional variations, it’s best to stick with the standard terms mentioned earlier. They are widely understood across Israel.
Examples of Using “Cheap” in Hebrew
To further understand how to use “cheap” in Hebrew, let’s take a look at a few examples:
- המחירים בחנות הזו זולים מאוד. (The prices in this store are very cheap.)
- אני צריך מזומן זול. (I need cheap cash.)
- אתה יכול למצוא דירה זולה באתרים האלקטרוניים. (You can find a cheap apartment on online websites.)
- אני יכול להמליץ על שוק זול וטוב ברחוב הזה. (I can recommend a cheap and good market on this street.)
Remember, these examples can be modified using the formal or informal expressions mentioned earlier, depending on the context and your preferred level of formality.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to say “cheap” in Hebrew, you’ll be able to confidently communicate and navigate various situations during your visit to Israel or in conversations with Hebrew speakers. Whether you opt for a formal or informal term, practicing these phrases will help you blend in and make the most of your Hebrew language journey.
