yashar · Hebrew

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

Guess the translation for honest

tari

yashar

adom

kaved

meshuga

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 common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use the word ישר (yashar) in everyday conversations to describe someone as honest or straightforward. For instance, a parent might say about their child that they are 'ישר' when they confess to a mistake, highlighting their integrity in a family setting.

Synonyms & nuances

While ישר (yashar) conveys the idea of honesty, another synonym, גלוי (galui), means 'open' or 'frank'. You would choose ישר when emphasizing moral integrity, whereas גלוי might be used to describe someone who is openly expressing thoughts or feelings without hiding anything.

Culture

The word ישר (yashar) originates from the Semitic root that implies straightness or directness, which is also reflected in its usage to describe moral uprightness. In Jewish culture, being yashar is often seen as a virtue, associated with honesty and fairness, making it a desirable trait in personal relationships and community interactions.

FAQ

Q.What does ישר (yashar) mean in English?

The Hebrew word ישר (yashar) translates to 'straight', 'honest', or 'upright' in English, often used to describe someone's character.

Q.How is ישר used in a sentence?

You can use ישר in a sentence like, 'הוא אדם ישר' (hu adam yashar), meaning 'He is an honest person.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using ישר?

A common mistake is to confuse ישר with similar words like פתוח (patuach) or גלוי (galui). Remember that ישר specifically relates to honesty and moral qualities, while the others denote openness or explicitness.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

Hebrew Adjectives