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צעיר — meaning in English: young

tsa'ir · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for young
להתקשר
lehitkasher
הבנתי
hevanti
אומרת
omeret
צעיר
tsa'ir
גדול
gadol
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informal very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'צעיר' when discussing age, particularly in informal settings. For instance, you might hear it at social gatherings when talking about young people in the community or when describing someone's youthful appearance, such as 'הוא נראה צעיר' (He looks young).
Synonyms & nuances
'צעיר' primarily describes someone who is young in age, while 'נוער' (no'ar) refers more specifically to teenagers. You would choose 'צעיר' in a general context about youth, while 'נוער' fits discussions about adolescence or youth culture.
Culture
'צעיר' has roots in the Hebrew language that date back thousands of years, often associated with vitality and the future. In Israeli culture, youth is celebrated, and young people are often seen as the pillars of innovation and change, making 'צעיר' a word that carries positive connotations.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of צעיר?
'צעיר' becomes 'צעירים' (tsa'irim) in plural form, which is used to refer to young people collectively.
Q.Can צעיר be used for both males and females?
Yes, 'צעיר' is often used for males, while 'צעירה' (tsa'ira) is the feminine form. Context will dictate which form to use depending on the subject's gender.
Q.Is there a formal way to say 'young' in Hebrew?
'צעיר' is quite informal, but in more formal contexts, you might hear expressions like 'בגיל צעיר' (at a young age), which can elevate the tone of the conversation.
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