I'm learning עברית

ישב — meaning in English: He sat down

yashav · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for sat (m.s.)
ישב
yashav
ממוצעת
memutsa'at
אנכי
anokhi
רישומים
rishumim
פתאומי
pit'omi
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'ישב' (yashav) in everyday conversations when describing a past action, such as sitting down in a café, at home, or during a meeting. It can also be encountered in storytelling or when recounting events, like explaining how someone took a seat during a family gathering.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'ישב' (yashav) directly means 'to sit down,' similar verbs like 'נשב' (nashav) can imply sitting together or gathering. You would choose 'ישב' when focusing on the act of sitting itself, rather than the communal aspect of the action.
Culture
'ישב' (yashav) has roots in ancient Hebrew texts, where it often signifies stability and rest, reflecting a cultural value placed on gathering and sharing moments together. Interestingly, the word can also be found in the context of religious texts, where sitting symbolizes contemplation or teaching, making it a significant term in both daily life and spiritual discussions.
FAQ
Q.What is the past tense of 'יושב' (yoshev)?
'יושב' (yoshev) means 'he sits.' The past tense is 'ישב' (yashav), which means 'he sat down.' This transition from present to past is common in Hebrew verb conjugation.
Q.Can 'ישב' be used in different contexts?
'ישב' can be used in various contexts, from informal settings like friends meeting up in a park to formal situations such as a board meeting. Its versatility makes it a staple verb in everyday Hebrew.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'ישב'?
A common mistake is confusing the gender forms; 'ישב' is masculine singular. Ensure to use 'ישבה' (yashvah) for feminine singular to maintain grammatical accuracy.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words