את יפה
at yafa
To say "you're beautiful" in Hebrew, use את יפה (at yafa).
The phrase את יפה is a compliment used specifically to tell a woman that she is physically attractive. You can also use the phrase איזה יפה to mean "how beautiful."
Which one should you use?
You can use the informal phrase אתה/את מהמם/מהממת. to say "You're stunning/beautiful." and the informal phrase איזה יפה/יפה אתה/את. to say "You're so beautiful."
How does it change in a sentence?
To say "you're beautiful" to a man, use the masculine form אתה יפה (ata yafe) instead of the feminine את יפה (at yafa).
How do you pronounce it?
at yafa
Did you know?
- In modern Hebrew, the word מהממת used for 'stunning' is derived from a verb meaning 'to daze' or 'to stun' someone into silence.
- Depending on the context, calling someone יפה in a sarcastic tone can be used to describe a 'pretty' mess or a 'nice' mistake.
- In ancient Ugaritic, a relative of the word יפה, the term was used to describe 'dignity' and 'honour' rather than just looks.
Examples in context
- את יפה, את יודעת?You're beautiful, you know?This sentence shows how to use את יפה in a rhetorical question.Tatoeba #5604017 by fekundulo, translation #5173876 by CK
- את יפה.You're beautiful.This sentence provides a simple statement using את יפה.Tatoeba #622147 by Eldad, translation #863592 by Daga007
- אלוהים, את יפה.God, you're beautiful.This sentence shows the use of את יפה in an exclamation.Tatoeba #5463091 by fekundulo, translation #3724731 by CM
Example conversation
Daniel and Noa are on a first date at a cafe.
- דניאל Danielאת יפה מאוד, נועה.at yafa me'od, Noa.You are very beautiful, Noa.
- נועה Noaתודה, דניאל. זה מחמם את הלב.toda, Daniel. ze me-khamem et ha-lev.Thank you, Daniel. That warms my heart.
- דניאל Danielאני ממש שמח שבאת.ani mamash samay'ach she-ba'at.I am really happy you came.
- נועה Noaגם אני.gam ani.Me too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries את, יפה, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
