I'm learning עברית

כלי — meaning in English: tool

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

Guess the translation for article / dish / vessel / ware / tool
כלי
kli
בירה
bira
ממשיך
mamshikh
בבדיקות
bivdikot
הרצף
haretsef
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 Hebrew speakers use the word 'כלי' (kli) in various contexts, such as when discussing tools for work or cooking. For instance, you might hear 'כלי עבודה' (kli avodah) when referring to work tools in a construction chat, or 'כלי מטבח' (kli mitbach) when talking about kitchen utensils during a cooking class.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'מכשיר' (makhsheer), which typically refers to a device or instrument. While 'כלי' is more general and can refer to any type of tool or utensil, 'מכשיר' is often used for electrical appliances or more specialized equipment.
Culture
'כלי' (kli) has its roots in the Hebrew Bible, where it referred to vessels or instruments used in religious rituals. Over time, its usage expanded beyond religious contexts to encompass all types of tools and implements, reflecting the Hebrew language's rich history and evolution through centuries of cultural and practical needs.
FAQ
Q.What does 'כלי' mean in Hebrew?
'כלי' (kli) means 'tool' in Hebrew, and it can refer to physical tools as well as metaphorical ones, like skills or methods.
Q.How do you use 'כלי' in a sentence?
You can use 'כלי' in sentences like 'יש לי כלי חדש לעבודות עץ' (Yes li kli chadash leavodot etz), meaning 'I have a new tool for woodworking.'
Q.Is there a plural form for 'כלי'?
Yes, the plural form of 'כלי' is 'כלים' (kelim). For example, 'אני צריך לקנות כלים חדשים' (Ani tsarikh liknot kelim chadashim) means 'I need to buy new tools.'
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words