I'm learning עברית

כי — meaning in English: Because

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

Guess the translation for Because
הבן
haben
כי
ki
שלהם
shelhem
השם
Hashem
אין
ein
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 use the word כי (ki) in everyday conversations to explain reasons or justifications. For example, one might say, 'אני לא אגיע למסיבה כי אני חולה' ('I won't come to the party because I'm sick'). It’s frequently used in both casual chats with friends and in more formal contexts like discussions or presentations.
Synonyms & nuances
Though כי (ki) means 'because,' it can sometimes be interchangeable with אם (im), which means 'if,' depending on the context. Use כי when you need to provide a clear reason, while אם is more about presenting a condition that may change the outcome.
Culture
The word כי (ki) is deeply embedded in Hebrew and serves as a fundamental connective in the language. Etymologically, it has roots in ancient texts, linking it to expressions of rationale and explanation that have been used for centuries. It’s fascinating to see how this simple conjunction bridges thoughts and ideas, illustrating the significance of reasoning in Hebrew culture.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of כי in Hebrew?
כי (ki) translates to 'because' in English and is used to introduce reasons or explanations.
Q.How do you pronounce כי?
כי is pronounced as 'ki,' with a short, crisp sound, similar to the English word 'key' but without the 'y' sound.
Q.Can כי be used in formal writing?
Yes, כי can be used in formal writing, as well as informal speech, making it a versatile conjunction for expressing reason across various contexts.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
1000 frequent Hebrew Words