Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “check” in Hebrew! Whether you’re traveling to Israel, connecting with Hebrew-speaking friends, or simply expanding your language skills, understanding how to ask for the check or bill is an essential phrase to know. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say “check” in Hebrew, highlighting any regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive right in and learn some useful phrases!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Check” in Hebrew
Using a formal manner to request the check is suitable when you’re dining in upscale restaurants or addressing professionals. Here are a few formal phrases to help you get the check:
1. לְשַׁלֵם (Lesha’lem)
This phrase translates to “to pay.” When you’re ready to ask for the check in a formal setting, you can politely say:
שָׁלֵם, בְּבַקְשָׁה? (Shalem, bevakasha?)
This phrase directly requests the bill or check by using the word “shalem” (pay) along with the polite word “bevakasha” (please). It is both respectful and widely understood in formal establishments.
2. חֶשְׁבּוֹן (Heshbon)
If you prefer a more direct approach, you can use the word “heshbon” to ask for the check. It is commonly used in formal dining contexts:
אֶפְשָׁר לְקַבֵּל אֶת הַחֶשְׁבּוֹן, בְּבַקְשָׁה? (Efshar lekabel et haheshbon, bevakasha?)
This phrase translates to “Can I receive the check, please?” It is a respectful way to request the check and is well-received in formal settings.
Informal Ways to Say “Check” in Hebrew
When you’re in a more casual or relaxed atmosphere, such as cafes or casual restaurants, you can use these informal phrases to ask for the check:
1. הֶחְשֵׁב אוֹ חֶשְׁבּוֹן (Hechshev o heshbon)
In informal settings, it’s common to simply mention the word “heshbon” or use a combination of “hechshev” and “heshbon” to ask for the check. For example:
תִתֵּן לִי אֶת הֶחְשֵׁב אוֹ אֶת הֶחְשְׁבּוֹן, בְּבַקְשָׁה? (Titain li et hechshev o et haheshbon, bevakasha?)
This phrase translates to “Can you give me the check or bill, please?” Using this informal request, you’ll sound friendly and natural while still being polite.
2. יֵשׁ לִי חַשְׁבּוֹן (Yesh li heshbon)
If you want to inform the waiter or waitress that you’re ready to pay, you can use this straightforward phrase:
לְדַעְתִי יֵשׁ לִי חַשְׁבּוֹן. (Ledati yesh li heshbon.)
This means “I think I have a bill” and is a simple way to indicate that you’d like the check without sounding too formal.
Regional Variations
Hebrew is primarily spoken in Israel, and while there aren’t significant regional differences concerning how to say “check,” pronunciation might slightly vary. Regardless of where you are in Israel, the phrases mentioned above will be perfectly understood and appropriate in both formal and informal situations.
Tips and Examples
To ensure a smooth interaction when asking for the check in Hebrew, here are a few helpful tips and additional examples:
1. Eye Contact and Gestures
Alongside using the correct phrases, making eye contact with the waiter or waitress and using a subtle hand gesture (such as mimicking a pen and paper) can further reinforce your request for the check, even if there is a language barrier.
2. Politeness and Appreciation
Whenever requesting the check, it’s always good practice to be polite and express appreciation. For example, you could say:
תוֹדָה רַבָּה עַל הֶחְשֵׁב! (Toda raba al hechshev!)
This means “Thank you very much for the check!” It shows gratitude and leaves a positive impression.
3. Practice Pronunciation
Take some time to practice the phrases and their pronunciation before your trip or encounter with native Hebrew speakers. Familiarizing yourself with the sounds will boost your confidence while communicating.
Now that you have a firm grasp on how to ask for the check in Hebrew, you’re well-prepared for your next dining experience or conversation with Hebrew speakers. Remember to be polite, use the appropriate phrase for the context, and enjoy expanding your language skills. Wishing you a wonderful journey as you explore the rich culture and language of Hebrew!
