I'm learning עברית

לשכב — meaning in English: lie

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

Guess the translation for to lie down
בסרטים
besratim
מלח
melakh
דולר
dolar
לשכב
lishkav
קרא
kara
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 common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'לשכב' (lishkav) in casual conversations about resting or lying down, such as when discussing plans for napping or bedtime. It may also appear in more serious contexts, such as healthcare discussions about patients needing to lie down for examinations.
Synonyms & nuances
'לשכב' (lishkav) is often used to describe physically lying down, while other verbs like 'לשבת' (lashevet) mean 'to sit.' When you want to emphasize the act of lying down specifically, 'לשכב' is the appropriate choice, whereas 'לשבת' would not convey the same imagery.
Culture
'לשכב' (lishkav) not only means 'to lie down' but can also refer to being in a horizontal position for various purposes, including relaxation, sleep, or even for more intimate contexts. The Hebrew language has a deep-rooted significance in rest and relaxation, reflecting the cultural importance of family time and personal space in Israeli society.
FAQ
Q.What is the conjugation of 'לשכב' in the present tense?
'לשכב' (lishkav) conjugates to 'שוכב' (shochev) for masculine singular and 'שוכבת' (shochevet) for feminine singular in the present tense. This is useful for discussing who is lying down.
Q.Can 'לשכב' be used in a figurative sense?
Yes, while primarily meaning 'to lie down,' 'לשכב' can also imply lying in a more abstract sense, such as in discussions about honesty or deception when used in specific idiomatic expressions.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'לשכב'?
A common mistake is confusing 'לשכב' with 'לשבת' (to sit). Remember that 'לשכב' specifically refers to lying down, while 'לשבת' refers to sitting. Ensure you're using the right context to avoid misunderstanding.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words