Navigating the world of modern Hebrew can be quite an adventure, especially if you’re trying to connect with millennials in Israel. Just like in English, Hebrew has evolved with the times, incorporating new slang and expressions that can sometimes leave learners scratching their heads. To help you stay current and engage in conversations with Israeli millennials, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 Hebrew millennial terms you need to know. Whether you’re traveling to Israel, chatting with Israeli friends, or just looking to expand your Hebrew vocabulary, these terms will give you a leg up.

1. סבבה (Sababa)

One of the most versatile and widely used slang words in modern Hebrew, סבבה (sababa) means “cool,” “great,” or “no problem.” Originating from Arabic, this term has seamlessly integrated into Hebrew and is used in a variety of contexts. For example, if someone asks you how your day was, you could respond with “היה סבבה” (haya sababa) meaning “It was great.”

2. חבל על הזמן (Chaval Al HaZman)

Literally translating to “a waste of time,” חבל על הזמן (chaval al hazman) has evolved into a phrase that actually means “awesome” or “amazing.” This idiomatic expression is often used to describe something that is exceptionally good. For instance, if a friend asks you about a recent concert you attended, you might say “היה חבל על הזמן” (haya chaval al hazman) to indicate that it was outstanding.

3. מגניב (Magniv)

Another word for “cool” or “awesome,” מגניב (magniv) is a popular term among younger Israelis. It’s often used to describe people, experiences, or objects that are impressive or enjoyable. If you find someone’s outfit particularly stylish, you could say “הבגדים שלך מגניבים” (habgadim shelcha magnivim) which means “Your clothes are cool.”

4. סחבק (Sachbak)

סחבק (sachbak) is an affectionate term used to describe a close friend or buddy. Similar to the English term “pal” or “mate,” this word is often used among young people to express camaraderie. For example, you might hear someone say “מה קורה, סחבק?” (ma koreh, sachbak?) which translates to “What’s up, buddy?”

5. בקטנה (Baktana)

Derived from the word “קטן” (katan), meaning “small,” בקטנה (baktana) is used to downplay the significance of something, similar to saying “no big deal” in English. This term is often used to reassure someone that a task or favor is not a burden. For instance, if someone thanks you for helping them move, you could respond with “זה היה בקטנה” (ze haya baktana), meaning “It was no big deal.”

6. חופר (Chofer)

חופר (chofer) literally means “digger,” but in modern Hebrew slang, it refers to someone who talks excessively or bores others with their endless chatter. If a friend is going on and on about a topic, you might say “אתה חופר” (ata chofer) to gently tease them about talking too much.

7. שוות (Shavot)

A term used to describe something that is worth it or worthwhile, שוות (shavot) is often used in a positive context. For example, if someone is debating whether to see a new movie, you might say “הסרט הזה שוות” (haseret haze shavot), meaning “This movie is worth it.”

8. דאווין (Dawin)

דאווין (dawin) is a slang term borrowed from Arabic that means showing off or putting on airs. It’s often used to describe someone who is being unnecessarily flashy or trying too hard to impress others. For example, if someone is bragging about their new car, you might say “הוא עושה דאווין” (hu oseh dawin), meaning “He’s showing off.”

9. זורם (Zorem)

Literally translating to “flowing,” זורם (zorem) is used to describe someone who is easy-going and adaptable. It can also mean going with the flow or being spontaneous. If someone asks you if you’re up for an unplanned adventure, you could respond with “אני זורם” (ani zorem), meaning “I’m down” or “I’m game.”

10. פשלה (Pashla)

פשלה (pashla) is a colloquial term for a mistake or blunder. It’s often used in a light-hearted way to describe minor errors or mishaps. If you accidentally spill coffee on your shirt, you might say “עשיתי פשלה” (asiti pashla), meaning “I made a mistake.”

Conclusion

These top 10 Hebrew millennial terms offer a glimpse into the vibrant and ever-evolving world of modern Israeli slang. By incorporating these expressions into your vocabulary, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also connect more deeply with Israeli culture and its younger generation. Remember, language is a living entity that grows and changes over time, so staying updated on contemporary slang can make your interactions more meaningful and enjoyable.

Whether you’re exploring the streets of Tel Aviv, engaging in lively conversations with new friends, or simply broadening your linguistic horizons, these terms will serve as valuable tools in your Hebrew learning journey. So go ahead, embrace these expressions, and watch as your Hebrew conversations become more dynamic and authentic. Sababa!