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חברים — meaning in English: Friends

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

Guess the translation for friends / members (m.)
בטענה
bete'ana
חברים
khaverim
שמאחורי
sheme'akhorei
הבניינים
habinyanim
מעצי
me'atsei
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informal very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers use the word חברים (khaverim) in casual settings, such as when making plans to meet friends for coffee or discussing activities with peers. It's also commonly heard during social gatherings, emphasizing camaraderie and connection among individuals.
Synonyms & nuances
While חברים (khaverim) specifically means 'friends', you might also encounter ידידים (yadidim), which refers to 'friends' or 'companions' but carries a slightly more formal tone. Use חברים (khaverim) for a more casual and inclusive context.
Culture
The Hebrew word חברים (khaverim) stems from the root חבר (chaver), which means 'to join' or 'to connect'. This reflects the deep cultural value placed on friendship and community in Israeli society. Interestingly, the term is often used not just for close friends, but also for acquaintances, highlighting the importance of social networks in daily life.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce חברים?
The word חברים is pronounced as 'khaverim', where the 'kh' sound is a guttural sound not found in English. Practice saying it by focusing on the pronunciation of 'ח' like a soft 'h'.
Q.Is חברים used in professional settings?
Generally, חברים (khaverim) is informal and best suited for social contexts. In professional settings, you might prefer terms like קולגות (kollegot) for 'colleagues' to maintain a more formal tone.
Q.Can חברים be used for both male and female friends?
Yes, חברים (khaverim) is a gender-neutral term when referring to a mixed-gender group of friends. However, if addressing a group of female friends specifically, you would say חברות (chaverot).
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