katan · Hebrew

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

Guess the translation for small

kehe

chamutz

chacham

katan

mukdam

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 'קטן' (katan) is often used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing size, age, or importance. For instance, you might hear a parent referring to their young child as 'קטן' when talking to friends, or when describing a small item at a market, such as a 'קטן תפוח' (small apple).

Synonyms & nuances

'קטן' (katan) is synonymous with 'זעיר' (za'ir), which also means small, but 'זעיר' carries a more formal tone and is often used in literary contexts. In contrast, 'קטן' is versatile and commonly used in everyday speech, making it the preferred choice in casual settings.

Culture

'קטן' (katan) is derived from the Hebrew root 'קטנ' which relates to smallness. In Israeli culture, this term can also invoke a sense of endearment, often used affectionately towards children or pets, highlighting their youthfulness and innocence. The word has also found its way into idiomatic expressions, reflecting the cultural emphasis on family and nurturing relationships.

FAQ

Q.What does the Hebrew word 'קטן' mean?

'קטן' (katan) means 'small' in English and is commonly used to describe size, age, or importance.

Q.How do you use 'קטן' in a sentence?

You can use 'קטן' to describe something small, such as 'אני רוצה את הכתבה הקטנה' (I want the small article) or to refer to a child as 'הילד שלי קטן' (My child is small).

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'קטן'?

A common mistake is confusing 'קטן' with 'צעיר' (tza'ir), which means 'young.' While both can refer to youth, 'קטן' specifically focuses on size, while 'צעיר' refers to age.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

Hebrew Adjectives