I'm learning עברית

שיש — meaning in English: That

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

Guess the translation for That
ילדים
yeladim
הן
hen
נמצא
nimtza
שיש
sheyesh
עליהם
alehem
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
The Hebrew word 'שיש' (sheyesh) is commonly used in everyday conversation among native speakers to indicate something specific. You might hear it in casual settings, such as when friends are discussing plans and one says, 'שיש מקום למסיבה?' meaning 'Is there a place for the party?' It also appears in formal contexts, such as in lectures or presentations.
Synonyms & nuances
'שיש' is often compared with 'זה' (zeh), which means 'this' in Hebrew. While 'שיש' indicates a specific item or concept that has been previously mentioned, 'זה' is more about immediate reference. You would choose 'שיש' when explicitly pointing to something already established in the conversation.
Culture
Interestingly, 'שיש' is derived from the ancient Hebrew language, reflecting the continuity of the language through the ages. Its use has remained stable in modern Hebrew, showcasing how some words retain their relevance and practicality in everyday conversation, bridging the gap between historical and contemporary usage. This word is often associated with clarity in communication, making it an essential part of expressing ideas.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'שיש' mean?
'שיש' translates to 'that' in English, and is used to refer back to something already mentioned.
Q.How do you pronounce 'שיש'?
'שיש' is pronounced as 'sheyesh', with emphasis on the 'yesh' part.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'שיש'?
A common mistake is using 'שיש' in contexts where a more immediate reference is needed. For immediate objects, 'זה' (zeh) would be more appropriate.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
1000 frequent Hebrew Words