When visiting Israel, it’s always a great idea to familiarize yourself with some basic greetings. Israelis are known for their warm and friendly nature, and starting a conversation with a simple “hi” can go a long way in establishing connections and making new friends. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “hi” in Israel, including both formal and informal greetings. While there may be slight regional variations, we will focus on the most commonly used phrases. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Greetings
When it comes to formal greetings, Israelis typically use the word “shalom.” This versatile word means both “hello” and “peace.” It is widely used in almost all contexts, including business meetings, official settings, and encounters with strangers. When greeting someone formally, say “shalom” with a pleasant smile:
Tips: Maintain eye contact, use a warm tone, and stand at a comfortable distance. Israelis appreciate directness, so greet confidently.
If you want to add a touch of warmth and politeness, you can say “shalom lecha” when speaking to a male, and “shalom lach” when addressing a female. This shows respect and acknowledges the gender of the person you are greeting. For example:
- Shalom lecha! (Hello to you! – addressing a male)
- Shalom lach! (Hello to you! – addressing a female)
Informal Greetings
Informal greetings in Israel are less structured and use common expressions that reflect the friendly and relaxed Israeli culture. Here are some popular ways to say “hi” informally:
1. Ma nishma
When meeting someone casually or among friends, a common greeting is “ma nishma,” which translates to “what’s up” or “how are you.” This is a great way to show interest in the other person’s well-being:
Tips: Use a friendly tone and expect a genuine response. Israelis tend to be open and honest in their conversations.
Examples:
- Ma nishma? (What’s up?)
- Ma nishma, koreh? (What’s up, dude?) – for informal male friends
- Ma nishma, koret? (What’s up, girl?) – for informal female friends
2. Shalom aleichem
Another popular informal greeting is “shalom aleichem,” meaning “peace be upon you.” While it has a formal counterpart, Israelis often use it casually as well. It’s a warm and friendly way to say “hi” to friends or people you meet in a relaxed setting:
Examples:
- Shalom aleichem! (Hello!)
- Shalom aleichem, ma koreh? (Hello, what’s happening?)
Additional Tips
When interacting with Israelis, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use body language: Israelis are expressive and often use gestures while conversing. Feel free to use hand movements to emphasize your point or show enthusiasm.
- Be direct: Israelis appreciate directness and value straightforward communication. Avoid beating around the bush and speak your mind.
- Learn a few Hebrew phrases: While basic greetings in English are widely understood, Israelis appreciate the effort of learning a little Hebrew. Simple phrases like “toda” (thank you), “boker tov” (good morning), or “lehitraot” (goodbye) can make a positive impression.
- Listen attentively: Israelis love to engage in conversations, and active listening is highly valued. Show genuine interest by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding with relevant comments or questions.
- Embrace the local culture: Immerse yourself in Israel’s vibrant culture, savor the local cuisine, visit historical sites, and take part in celebrations. By showing appreciation for their traditions, you’ll create a deeper connection with the Israeli people.
Remember, the most important thing is to approach greetings in Israel with sincerity and a friendly attitude. Whether you start with a formal “shalom” or an informal “ma nishma,” your genuine interest in connecting with others will surely be appreciated. Enjoy your time in Israel!
