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ביש — meaning in English: bad

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

Guess the translation for bad / ill
המאוחר
hame'ukhar
הלכו
halkhu
נמצאה
nimtse'a
ביש
bish
במוח
bemo'akh
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informal common
Usage
Hebrew speakers often use the word 'ביש' (bish) to describe food that has gone bad or to express discontent about a situation. For instance, a person might say, 'הסלט הזה ביש' (this salad is bad) when discussing a meal that doesn't taste fresh. It can also be used in casual conversation among friends to describe an unfortunate event, such as a bad day at work.
Synonyms & nuances
'ביש' is often used in casual contexts, whereas 'רע' (ra), another word for bad, is more formal and can imply moral judgment. Choose 'ביש' when you want to express dissatisfaction in a light-hearted, informal setting, while 'רע' may be more appropriate in serious discussions.
Culture
'ביש' has its roots in ancient Hebrew, where it carried connotations of badness or misfortune. Interestingly, in Yiddish, a language that evolved from Hebrew and German influences, the term 'bosh' also signifies something negative, reflecting the intertwining of cultures. Using 'ביש' can evoke a sense of shared experience when discussing everyday mishaps within a community.
FAQ
Q.What does 'ביש' mean in English?
'ביש' translates to 'bad' in English, and it is commonly used to describe poor quality or negative experiences.
Q.How do you use 'ביש' in a sentence?
You can use 'ביש' in sentences like 'הסרט הזה ביש' (this movie is bad) to express disappointment about something.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'ביש'?
A common mistake is using 'ביש' in overly formal contexts; it is best suited for informal or conversational situations.
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