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עברית
היום — meaning in English: Today
hayom · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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today
העשור
ha'asor
תרכובות
tirkovot
היום
hayom
הלכת
halakht
הולדתו
huladeto
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers use 'היום' (hayom) in everyday conversation to refer to the current day, whether discussing plans, events, or simply noting the date. For example, you might hear someone say, 'היום אני הולך לקולנוע' (Hayom ani holech le'kolnoa), meaning 'Today I'm going to the movies.' It is commonly used in both informal settings, like chatting with friends, and more neutral contexts such as business meetings.
Synonyms & nuances
'היום' specifically refers to 'today' in a straightforward manner, while 'היום הזה' (hayom haze) translates to 'this day' and can imply a more formal tone, often used in legal or official contexts. Choose 'היום' for casual conversations and quicker exchanges.
Culture
'היום' has roots in Biblical Hebrew, where it also meant 'today.' Its consistent use over millennia reflects the importance of the present moment in Hebrew culture, emphasizing the significance of timely actions and decisions. Interestingly, in traditional Jewish prayers, the word is often invoked to highlight the day's spiritual importance, reminding practitioners to seize the day.
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