Infinitives
1.17
בּיטוּיים לכּיתה
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The Hebrew Infinitive
They all begin with a ל . But there are different patterns, depending on the verb group. Here are some examples using verbs that we have used in our practice dialogs. Let’s use the verb to want to introduce the infinitive. We suggest you memorize these sentences.
Note: We could use the word please + an infinitive to create a polite command—instead of a genuine imperative (command form). For example:
Please sing = בְּבקשה לָשִיר
one-syllable verbs
I lived in Tel Aviv but I want to live in Eilat.
Final ה verbs
He didn’t buy bread and he wants to buy falafel. (note ending:וֹת)
He wasn’t a singer but he wants to be a singer (because he loves "to sing)
(The second infinitive is from a one-syllable verb,שר but with an /ee/ vowel in the infinitive)
Final ה verbs, but with four letters
He didn't clean but he wants to clean
(Notice the /ah/ vowel under the 1st root letter instead of a shva)
He didn’t wait for Miriam but he wants to wait for her
Regular two-syllable verb
I didn’t study Hebrew, but I want to study.
I didn’t write a letter to Mom but I want to write to her.
We didn’t read the book but we want to read the book tonight.
Regular 2-syllable verb with four letters
He didn’t peel potatoes but he is willing to peel them
16
הֶעָרָה
What is the word אֶת ?
See 2.15 for an explanation of ה "the"
When the word that the ה is attached to is a direct object, then אֶת comes before the word.(We often use violet or another color for things you haven't learned yet.)