Learning a new language is always an adventure, and part of that adventure is getting to grips with the slang. Slang is the seasoning that gives language its flavor, the informal words and expressions typically used in casual conversation. If you’re learning Hebrew, here are some Hebrew slang words that will not only enhance your vocabulary but might also earn you some street cred among native speakers.

אחי (Achi)
Meaning “my brother,” this is a term of endearment between friends, not necessarily literal brothers. You’ll hear it used often among men, but it’s not exclusive to male speakers.
אתמול ראיתי את אחי והלכנו לשתות בירה בפאב.

סבבה (Savaba)
This is the equivalent of “cool” or “all good.” It’s an affirmation that something is okay or that you’re in agreement with a plan or suggestion.
אתה רוצה לצאת היום בערב? סבבה, אני בפנים.

חמוד/ה (Chamud/a)
This word means “cute” or “adorable” and can refer to a person, pet, or even an object. The suffix changes depending on gender; “chamud” is masculine, while “chamuda” is feminine.
התינוקת שלך כל כך חמודה!

פרייר (Freier)
A “sucker” or someone who is easily taken advantage of. It’s used to describe someone who does more than necessary or pays more than they should.
אל תהיה פרייר, הם בקשו ממך יותר כסף ממה שצריך.

תכל’ס (Tachles)
The word is a contraction of the phrase “תך לסוף” (tach li-ssof), meaning “in short” or “bottom line,” and is used to signal that you’re about to speak frankly or get to the point.
תכל’ס, אני לא חושב שזה רעיון טוב.

יאללה (Yalla)
An Arabic loanword meaning “let’s go” or “hurry up.” It’s used very commonly in Hebrew to urge someone to pick up the pace or express excitement about doing something.
יאללה, אנחנו מאחרים לסרט!

מגניב (Magniv)
This word means “cool,” “awesome,” or “great.” It’s used to describe anything that is trendy, impressive, or fashionable.
המופע הזה היה ממש מגניב!

סתם (Stam)
It translates to “just kidding” or “just because.” It’s used after saying something to clarify that you weren’t serious, or to explain an action done without any particular reason.
לא לקחתי את מה שאמרת ברצינות, ידעתי שזה סתם.

גאון (Gaon)
Literally meaning “genius,” this term is used to describe someone incredibly smart or a brilliant idea in informal conversation.
התכנית שלך לסופ”ש נשמעת כמו גאון.

באסה (Basa)
Means something like “bummer” or “that’s too bad.” It’s typically used when something disappointing or mildly annoying happens.
המסעדה שרצינו ללכת אליה סגורה? איזו באסה.

להתחבר (Lehitkhaber)
This slang verb translates to “to connect,” but it’s used colloquially to mean “to vibe with” or “to click with” someone.
אני מאוד מתחברת אליו, הוא בן אדם מקסים.

By incorporating these Hebrew slang words into your daily conversations, you’ll not only expand your vocabulary but also sound much more like a local when you speak. Remember, language is always evolving, and slang words are the playground where new expressions and colloquialisms are tested and embraced. Go out there and have fun with them, אחי!