I'm learning עברית

העיר — meaning in English: The city

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

Guess the translation for the city
צייר
tsiyer
אליפות
alifut
שבטי
shivti
מכך
mikakh
העיר
ha'ir
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 very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word העיר (ha'ir) when discussing urban life, traveling, or making plans in a city setting. For example, a conversation might revolve around meeting friends at a café in the city or describing the vibrancy of city events during a holiday season.
Synonyms & nuances
Another word you might encounter is יישוב (yeshuv), which refers more to a settlement or community rather than a bustling city. Use העיר (ha'ir) when you specifically want to emphasize urban characteristics or life in a city environment.
Culture
The word העיר (ha'ir) has its roots in ancient Hebrew, where cities were often the centers of culture and trade. In modern Israel, cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem embody not just physical spaces but also rich cultural identities, making the term even more significant in everyday conversations about life in Israel.
FAQ
Q.What does העיר mean in English?
The word העיר (ha'ir) translates to 'the city' in English, commonly used in everyday conversation about urban areas.
Q.How do you use העיר in a sentence?
You can use העיר (ha'ir) in a sentence like 'אני גר בעיר' (Ani gar ba'ir), which means 'I live in the city.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using העיר?
One common mistake is confusing העיר with other terms like כפר (kfar), which means 'village.' Remember, העיר specifically refers to a city, often implying a larger, more urban setting.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words