Hebrew, a Semitic language primarily spoken in Israel, holds a rich history and cultural significance. Whether you’re looking to learn the Hebrew language for personal or professional reasons, mastering common phrases and expressions is essential. In this guide, we will explore how to say “It is finished” in Hebrew, providing both formal and informal variations alongside various examples and helpful tips.
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Formal Ways to Say “It is Finished” in Hebrew
If you need to use the formal way to express “It is finished” in Hebrew, you can say:
1. זֵה נִגְמַר (Ze Nigmar)
This phrase directly translates to “It is finished” in English. It is a straightforward and commonly used expression in formal contexts. You can use this in professional settings, academic environments, or when speaking with someone you hold a respectful relationship with. For instance:
A professor concluding a lecture might say, “תרצה לענות על שאלות? זה נגמר” (Would you like to ask any questions? It is finished).
2. הִישַגְתִּי (Hishtagti)
This phrase, meaning “I have achieved,” can also be used to convey the idea of completion. While it doesn’t have the exact translation to “It is finished,” it is frequently used in formal situations to imply the same meaning. Consider the following example:
At the end of a job interview, you could say, “התרגול שלך החדיר לי את הכישורים הנדרשים. השיגתי” (Your training provided me with the necessary skills. I have achieved).
Informal Ways to Say “It is Finished” in Hebrew
In more informal settings or when conversing with family and friends, you might prefer to use colloquial phrases to express the completion of a task or activity. Here are a couple of common options:
1. זֵה נִגְמַר (Ze Nigmar)
Yes, this phrase can also be used casually. It holds the same meaning as the formal version but is frequently used among friends, relatives, or in everyday conversations. For example:
After completing a delicious home-cooked meal, you might say, “כל האוכל מוכן. זה נגמר!” (All the food is ready. It is finished!).
2. נִגְמַר (Nigmar)
This shorter version of “It is finished” is commonly used in casual situations and offers a more laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for conversations with friends or when you want to sound relaxed. An example of using this phrase could be:
After completing a DIY project, you might exclaim, “בראש, ניגמר!” (Well, it’s finished!).
Additional Tips and Examples
Regional Variations:
While Hebrew is predominantly spoken in Israel, regional variations in dialect and slang can exist. However, the phrases provided in this guide are widely understood throughout the country and among Hebrew speakers worldwide.
Non-Verbal Gestures:
In addition to verbal expressions, non-verbal cues such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language can convey the completion of a task or activity. Pay attention to these cues when engaging with native Hebrew speakers to enhance your overall communication.
Expressing Completion in Different Contexts:
Remember that the phrases provided here assume you intend to express the completion of a task or activity. If you are referring to the end of a specific event, such as a concert or a movie, you can adapt the phrases accordingly. For instance:
- “ההופעה נגמרה” (Ha’oref nagmara) – The show/concert is finished.
- “הסרט הסתיים” (Ha’seret hista’yem) – The movie is over.
The Power of Homemade Phrases:
While using ready-made phrases is convenient, creating your own personalized expressions is an excellent way to demonstrate your language proficiency and connect with native speakers on a deeper level. Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from conversations you have with Hebrew speakers!
Now armed with both formal and informal phrases to express “It is finished” in Hebrew, you can confidently navigate conversations and situations where this expression is crucial. Practice regularly, enjoy the learning process, and soon you’ll find yourself mastering the Hebrew language with ease!
