Welcome to this guide on how to say “cold” in Hebrew. Whether you’re planning a trip to Israel or simply interested in expanding your vocabulary, learning how to express the concept of cold in Hebrew is valuable. In this guide, you’ll find both formal and informal ways to convey the idea of cold in Hebrew, as well as some tips, examples, and even regional variations if relevant. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cold in Hebrew
If you’re looking for more formal ways to express cold in Hebrew, particularly in official or professional settings, consider using the following phrases:
1. קָר (kar)
“Kar” is the standard formal word for cold in Hebrew. It can be used in various situations and contexts.
Example: הטמפרטורה נמוכה מאוד, יש קר בחוץ. (Ha-temperatura n’muḥa, yesh kar ba-ḥuts.) – The temperature is very low, it’s cold outside.
2. מְקוֹרָר (mekorar)
If you want to emphasize the cooling effect or the presence of air conditioning, you can use the word “mekorar”.
Example: החדר מקורר מידי, נא לכבות את המזגן. (Ha-ḥeder mekorar midi, na lakbot et ha-mizgan.) – The room is too cold, please turn off the air conditioning.
Informal Ways to Say Cold in Hebrew
When talking with friends, family, or in casual conversations, you can use these more informal expressions to convey the sensation of cold in Hebrew:
1. קָרָהָנִי (karahani)
“Karahani” is a colloquial term used predominantly in spoken Hebrew to describe feeling chilly.
Example: ברוכים הבאים! אתם מרגישים קרהניים? (B’ruchim haba’im! Atem margishim karahaniyim?) – Welcome! Are you feeling cold?
2. מְשקַרְרֵר (mashqarrer)
“Mashqarrer” is an informal word often used by young people to describe the sensation of freezing or shivering. It’s derived from the word “kar” (cold) with an added intensifying prefix.
Example: אתמול ירד גשם, היה כל כך משקרר! (Etmol yarda geshem, haya kol kakh mashqarrer!) – It rained yesterday, it was so freezing!
Regional Variations
Hebrew is spoken in various countries and has regional variations. While the expressions covered so far are universally understood, below are some regional variations:
1. קש (kash)
In certain communities, especially amongst Hebrew speakers from Yemen, the word “kash” is used to mean “cold”.
Example: אתמול היה יום קש, היינו חייבים להתלבש חמים! (Etmol haya yom kash, hayinu kha’ivim lehitlabesh khamim!) – Yesterday was a cold day, we had to dress warmly!
2. צונן (tsonen)
In certain contexts, such as Israeli slang, the word “tsonen” might be used to describe a feeling of coldness.
Example: הערב הוא צונן, תביא לי את הכובע שלי. (Ha-erev hu tsonen, tavi li et ha-kova sheli.) – The evening is chilly, bring me my hat.
Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of this guide on how to say “cold” in Hebrew! Now you have a range of expressions at your disposal, both formal and informal. Remember, the word “kar” is the most common and standard term, suitable for most situations. If you want to add a touch of informality, try using “karahani” or “mashqarrer” when speaking with friends or family. And if you encounter regional variations, such as “kash” or “tsonen,” embrace the diversity of the Hebrew language.
With these new vocabulary words, you’ll be better equipped to describe the cold weather or your chilly sensations in Hebrew. Stay warm and keep learning!
