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חום — meaning in English: Heat

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

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בשבילי
bishvili
משק
mashak
ליחידות
liykhidat
חום
khum
ממתכת
mimatekhet
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'חום' (khum) in everyday conversations, especially when discussing the weather or feeling warm sensations. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'החום היום ממש גבוה' (The heat today is really high) during the summer, or in reference to a warm meal when dining with family.
Synonyms & nuances
'חום' (khum) specifically refers to heat in a physical sense, while 'חמימות' (hamimout) conveys a sense of warmth that is cozy and inviting. Use 'חום' when discussing temperature, and reserve 'חמימות' for situations that emphasize comforting warmth.
Culture
'חום' is not just a measure of temperature; it also embodies a sense of warmth and comfort in Hebrew culture. Interestingly, the concept of heat has been historically linked to the Mediterranean climate, influencing everything from cuisine to social gatherings where warmth is central to hospitality.
FAQ
Q.What is the pronunciation of 'חום'?
'חום' is pronounced as 'khum,' with a guttural 'kh' sound similar to the Scottish 'loch.'
Q.How do you use 'חום' in a sentence?
You can say, 'החום כאן לא נסבל' which means 'The heat here is unbearable.' This contextualizes the discomfort caused by high temperatures.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'חום'?
A common mistake is confusing 'חום' with 'חמימות.' While both relate to warmth, 'חום' is more about heat, whereas 'חמימות' conveys a sense of cozy warmth.
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