How to Form Questions in Hebrew for English Speakers

Understanding the Basics of Hebrew Questions

In Hebrew, forming questions can be quite different from English. The sentence structure, as well as the use of specific question words and intonations, plays a significant role in transforming a statement into a question.

Common Question Words in Hebrew

Question Structure: Yes/No Questions

For yes/no questions, Hebrew commonly uses the same sentence structure as a statement but relies heavily on intonation to indicate that it is a question. Sometimes, the word "האם" (ha'im) is used as an indicator of a yes/no question.

• בא לך? - Do you want?
• אכלת? - Did you eat?

Using "האם" in Questions

The word "האם" (ha'im) is used to seek confirmation. It can often be found at the beginning of a yes/no question to make it clear that a question is being asked:

• האם אתה בא? - Are you coming?

Wh-Questions in Hebrew

When forming 'wh-' questions (who, what, where, why), Hebrew uses specific question words placed at the beginning of the sentence, similar to English:

• מה אתה עושה? - What are you doing?
• איפה גרים? - Where do you live?
• מי פה? - Who is here?

Intonation: The Key to Questions

Intonation is crucial when speaking Hebrew questions. Unlike English, where the intonation rise is often at the end, Hebrew questions may not always have this distinct change if a question word is used. Instead, practice listening and repeating the melodic patterns typical in Hebrew conversations.