לחיי — meaning in English: To my life

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

Guess the translation for to the life of (m.) / cheers

זרע

zera

הלאומנים

hale'umanim

להתפתחות

lahitpatkhut

לחיי

lekhayei

ובמקביל

uvemakbil

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

informal common

Usage

The word 'לחיי' (lekhayei) is commonly used in celebratory contexts, such as toasting drinks during social gatherings or family celebrations in Israel. It's often heard during weddings, bar mitzvahs, or friendly get-togethers, where people raise their glasses and express good wishes for life and happiness.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'לחיים' (lechayim), which literally translates to 'to life.' While both phrases are used interchangeably, 'לחיי' is often more personal, as it directly addresses the listener, making it more intimate in toasting situations.

Culture

'לחיי' comes from the Hebrew root 'חיים' (chayim), meaning 'life.' This toast embodies a heartfelt wish for health and prosperity, reflecting the importance of community and togetherness in Israeli culture. It's fascinating how this simple phrase encapsulates a deep-seated cultural value of celebrating life with loved ones, often leading to joyous gatherings filled with laughter and shared stories.

FAQ

Q.What does the Hebrew word 'לחיי' mean?

'לחיי' (lekhayei) translates to 'to my life' in English and is commonly used in toasts during celebrations, wishing joy and good health.

Q.How do you use 'לחיי' in a sentence?

You can use 'לחיי' when raising a glass in a toast, for example: 'לחיי, חברים!' which means 'To my life, friends!' It's a way of expressing camaraderie and good wishes.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'לחיי'?

A common mistake is using 'לחיי' in overly formal situations. It is primarily informal and best reserved for friendly gatherings, rather than formal events.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

10.000 Hebrew Words