Learning how to say “expensive” in different languages adds depth to your vocabulary and helps you communicate more effectively. If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge of Hebrew, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways of expressing “expensive” in Hebrew, along with various tips and examples.
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Formal Ways of Saying “Expensive” in Hebrew
In formal contexts, when using proper Hebrew, the commonly used word for “expensive” is:
1. יקר (yakar)
This term conveys the idea of something having a high price or being costly. Here are a few examples of how you can incorporate this word into your conversations:
Examples
- אני קניתי פרחים יקרים לאמא שלי. (Ani kaniti perachim yekarim le’ima sheli.) – I bought expensive flowers for my mother.
- המוצר הזה מאוד יקר, אינני יכול לשמור עליו. (Ha’mutzar haze me’od yakar, eineni yachol lishmor alav.) – This product is very expensive, I can’t afford it.
- המסעדה הזו מציעה תפריט יקר. (Ha’mis’ada hazo metzi’a tafrit yakar.) – This restaurant offers an expensive menu.
Informal Ways of Saying “Expensive” in Hebrew
In informal settings or conversational Hebrew, people often use the following expressions:
2. אמץ (emetz)
3. דורות (dorot)
4. יקר ביותר (yakar b’yoter)
These terms are commonly used to describe something as expensive in a more relaxed or colloquial manner. Below are some examples of how you can incorporate these words into your conversations:
Examples
- הנעליים האלו כל כך אמצות, אין לי את הכסף. (Ha’na’alayim halo kol kach ametzot, ein li et hakasef.) – These shoes are so expensive, I don’t have the money.
- אני אוהבת לקנות תכשיטים יקרים ודורות. (Ani ohevet liknot tachshiyot yekarim vedorot.) – I love buying expensive and fancy jewelry.
- הטיסה ליעד שלנו עלתה יקר ביותר. (Ha’tisa l’yaad shelanu alta yakar b’yoter.) – The flight to our destination was extremely expensive.
Tips for Using “Expensive” in Hebrew Conversation
1. Context Matters
When using the word for “expensive” in Hebrew, always consider the context in which you are speaking. Different situations may call for different forms of the word.
2. Politeness is Key
Remember to express your opinions politely when discussing the cost of items or services. Being respectful will contribute to a more harmonious conversation.
3. Expand Your Vocabulary
If you want to express varying degrees of expense in Hebrew, consider learning additional related words or phrases, such as “very expensive” (יקר מאוד) or “too expensive” (יקר מדי).
5. יקר מאוד (yakar me’od)
6. יקר מדי (yakar m’dai)
These additional phrases will enrich your ability to communicate precisely in different situations.
Conclusion
Knowing how to say “expensive” in Hebrew allows for smoother conversations and a broader understanding of the language. Whether you choose to adopt formal terms like “יקר” (yakar) or go for more informal expressions like “אמץ” (emetz) and “דורות” (dorot), you’ll discover that Hebrew has a range of options to suit your needs. Remember to consider the context, be polite, and expand your vocabulary to become a more confident Hebrew speaker.
