החי — meaning in English: Living

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

Guess the translation for the living

לפינוי

lapinui

לימוד

limud

החדש

hakhadash

שהתנגדו

shehitnagdu

החי

hakhai

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 'החי' (hakhai) in religious or philosophical discussions to describe the essence of life, especially when referring to living beings or the concept of vitality. For example, you might hear it in a conversation about the importance of preserving nature or during a debate about what it means to be truly alive.

Synonyms & nuances

'החי' (hakhai) can be compared to 'חיוני' (hayuni), which means 'essential' or 'vital.' While both convey a sense of life, 'החי' specifically refers to the state of being alive, while 'חיוני' emphasizes the necessity and importance of life in a broader context.

Culture

'החי' (hakhai) is derived from the root חי (chai), which embodies the idea of life in Hebrew culture. This word is frequently used in various contexts, from everyday conversation to important religious texts, including the Bible. Fun fact: the term 'chai' is culturally significant in Jewish traditions, often associated with the number 18, symbolizing life and good fortune.

FAQ

Q.What does the Hebrew word 'החי' mean?

'החי' (hakhai) means 'living' in English, referring to beings that are alive or the state of being alive.

Q.How do you use 'החי' in a sentence?

'החי' can be used in sentences like 'החיים הם מתנה' (hahayim hem matna) meaning 'Life is a gift,' where it emphasizes the living aspect.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'החי'?

A common mistake is confusing 'החי' with 'חיוני' (hayuni). Remember that 'החי' specifically refers to living beings, while 'חיוני' refers to essential aspects of life.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

10.000 Hebrew Words