I'm learning עברית

אמש — meaning in English: last night

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

Guess the translation for last night
האמת
ha'emet
הולך
holekh
זוהה
zuha
הבעל
haba'al
אמש
emesh
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
Native speakers commonly use 'אמש' when discussing events or experiences that occurred the previous night. For example, someone might say, 'אמש הייתי במסיבת יום הולדת,' meaning 'Last night I was at a birthday party.' It's typically used in casual conversations among friends or family.
Synonyms & nuances
'אמש' is closely related to the word 'אתמול' (yesterday), but while 'אתמול' refers to the entire day before, 'אמש' specifically highlights the night period. You would choose 'אמש' when the focus is on activities or emotions tied specifically to the nighttime hours.
Culture
'אמש' has roots in ancient languages, tracing back to both Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic, where similar forms were used to denote 'yesterday' or 'last night.' The word evokes a sense of nostalgia, as it connects speakers to personal stories and shared experiences from the night before, often sparking lively discussions about memories.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce אמש in Hebrew?
You pronounce 'אמש' as 'emesh,' with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Q.Can I use אמש in formal contexts?
Generally, 'אמש' is more suitable for informal conversations. In formal contexts, you might opt for phrases like 'לילה שעבר' (the night that passed).
Q.Are there common phrases that include אמש?
Yes, a common phrase is 'אמש בלילה' which means 'last night' and can be used to set the scene for storytelling.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words