חייבים — meaning in English: Must

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Guess the translation for Must

גמור

gamur

לכאן

lechan

שאין

she'ein

מאוחר

meuchar

חייבים

chayavim

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neutral common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers often use the word חייבים in everyday life to express obligations or necessities. For instance, a parent might say, 'אתם חייבים לסיים את השיעורים שלכם' ('You must finish your homework') when emphasizing the importance of responsibilities.

Synonyms & nuances

While חייבים conveys a strong sense of necessity, a synonym like 'צריך' (tzarich) implies need but may lack the same urgency. You would choose חייבים when the obligation is non-negotiable, such as legal or moral imperatives.

Culture

The word חייבים has its roots in the Hebrew verb 'לחייב' (le-chayev), meaning 'to obligate' or 'to require.' This reflects a cultural emphasis on duty and responsibility in Israeli society, where communal obligations are often highlighted in both personal and professional settings.

FAQ

Q.What does חייבים mean in English?

The Hebrew word חייבים translates to 'must' in English, indicating a strong necessity or obligation.

Q.How is חייבים used in everyday conversation?

חייבים is commonly used to express obligations, such as 'You must go to work' or 'We must help our friends.'

Q.Are there any grammatical rules for using חייבים?

Yes, חייבים is the plural form, used when addressing multiple people. For singular, you would use חייב (chayav) for males and חייבת (chayevet) for females.

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