Shalom! Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “problem” in Hebrew. Whether you are visiting Israel, learning the language, or simply curious about Hebrew vocabulary, we’re here to help you understand different ways to express the concept of a problem in Hebrew. This guide will cover both formal and informal ways, along with a few regional variations where applicable.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Problem” in Hebrew
When it comes to formal situations, it is important to use polite and respectful language. Here are a few variations to express the concept of a problem formally:
i. Mas’alah (מַסְפֶּרֶת)
The most common and widely used word for problem in formal Hebrew is “mas’alah.” It can be used in various contexts and is easily recognized regardless of the region in Israel.
Example: Bibi, yesh li mas’alah. (בִּיבִּי, יֵשׁ לִי מַסְפָּרֶת) – Bibi, I have a problem.
ii. Ikul (עִקּוּל)
A more formal and sometimes archaic word for problem is “ikul.” Although not as commonly used as “mas’alah,” it can still be encountered in formal writing or speech.
Example: Ani me’akesh lehitkaleim me’ikulim. (אֲנִי מֵעַקֵּשׁ לְהִתְקַלֵּעַ מֵעִקּוּלִים) – I try to avoid getting into problems.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Problem” in Hebrew
Informal situations allow for a more relaxed and colloquial language. Here are a few common ways to express the concept of a problem informally:
i. Sipur (סִיפּוּר)
“Sipur” is a versatile word often used in everyday casual conversations to refer to a problem or an issue. This word is widely understood in different regions of Israel.
Example: Ma ze sipur? (מַה זֶה סִיפּוּר?) – What’s the problem?
ii. Hevra (חֶבְרָה)
In certain contexts, especially among younger generations, the word “hevra” can be used to denote a problem or a difficulty. This slang term originates from the Hebrew word for “group” but has evolved to include the connotation of a troublesome situation.
Example: Yesh li hevra im ha’inyanim. (יֵשׁ לִי חֶבְרָה עִם הָעִנְיָנִים) – I have a problem with the issues.
3. Regional Variations
Hebrew is spoken in different regions of Israel, and some variations exist in vocabulary use. While the previously mentioned terms are widely understood throughout the country, regional variations may include:
i. Mashehu (מַשְׁהוּ)
In certain areas, particularly in the northern region of Israel, the word “mashehu” is occasionally used to refer to a problem or a matter.
Example: Ha’aim yesh lach mashehu? (הַאַם יֵשׁ לָךְ מַשְׁהוּ?) – Do you have a problem?
ii. Shvilei (שְׁוִילֵי)
In some parts of the Israeli population, particularly in the South, the term “shvilei” can be heard to express the idea of a difficulty.
Example: Ani lo rotse l’hihiyot im shvilei ha’matzav. (אֲנִי לֹא רוֹצֶה לְהִיהִיוֹת עִם שְׁוִילֵי הַמָּצָב) – I don’t want to deal with the difficulties of the situation.
Wrap-up
Congratulations! You’ve learned several ways to say “problem” in Hebrew. Whether you need to address a formal or informal situation, you now have a range of words to choose from. Remember to consider the context and your relationship with the person you are speaking to in order to select the most appropriate term. Additionally, regional variations can add some diversity to your vocabulary, but the previously mentioned terms will ensure you are well understood throughout Israel.
We hope you find this guide useful on your language journey. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll become even more fluent in Hebrew! Toda and b’hatzlacha (thank you and good luck)!
