אֲנִי לֹא מֵבִין
Ani Lo Mevin
“I don't understand”
Ani Lo Mevin (אֲנִי לֹא מֵבִין) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “i don't understand,” pronounced “a-NI lo me-VIN.” The literal translation is “i not understanding.” An essential survival phrase for travelers and language learners. Changes form based on the speaker's gender.
| Hebrew | אֲנִי לֹא מֵבִין |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Ani Lo Mevin |
| English Meaning | I don't understand |
| Literal Translation | I not understanding |
| Pronunciation | a-NI lo me-VIN |
| Category | Everyday Expressions |
| Origin | Modern Hebrew, using the biblical root ב-י-ן. The concept of binah (understanding) is one of the ten Sefirot in Kabbalah and one of three intellectual virtues celebrated in Proverbs alongside chokhmah (wisdom) and da'at (knowledge). |
For any visitor to Israel who finds themselves surrounded by rapid-fire Hebrew they can't follow, three words will become your best friend: Ani lo mevin (if you're male) or Ani lo mevinah (if you're female) — 'I don't understand.' The Hebrew word mevin comes from the root ב-י-ן meaning 'to understand, to discern,' which also gives us binah (understanding/wisdom) — one of the highest intellectual virtues in Jewish thought. So when you say 'lo mevin,' you're not just admitting confusion; you're acknowledging a gap in binah — the same quality that King Solomon asked God for when offered anything in the world. There's no shame in lo mevin; every Hebrew learner starts there.
Where Does “Ani Lo Mevin” Come From?
Modern Hebrew, using the biblical root ב-י-ן. The concept of binah (understanding) is one of the ten Sefirot in Kabbalah and one of three intellectual virtues celebrated in Proverbs alongside chokhmah (wisdom) and da'at (knowledge).
When and How to Say “Ani Lo Mevin”
Essential for travelers, language students, and anyone navigating unfamiliar situations in Israel. Male speakers say 'Ani lo mevin'; female speakers say 'Ani lo mevinah.' Often followed by pointing, hand gestures, and attempts to switch to English.
Cultural Context of Ani Lo Mevin
Most Israelis speak English to some degree and will switch languages if they hear 'Ani lo mevin.' Israeli culture is generally patient and helpful with visitors trying to communicate. Saying even a few words of Hebrew — including admitting you don't understand — is appreciated and often met with a warm smile and assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you say “I don't understand” in Hebrew?
“I don't understand” in Hebrew is Ani Lo Mevin (אֲנִי לֹא מֵבִין), pronounced “a-NI lo me-VIN.” The literal translation is “I not understanding.” An essential survival phrase for travelers and language learners. Changes form based on the speaker's gender.
How do you pronounce Ani Lo Mevin?
Ani Lo Mevin is pronounced “a-NI lo me-VIN.” The literal meaning is “I not understanding.”
How does a woman say 'I don't understand' in Hebrew?
A woman says 'Ani lo mevinah' (אֲנִי לֹא מְבִינָה), pronounced 'a-NI lo me-vi-NAH.' The verb changes from mevin (masculine participle) to mevinah (feminine participle). Hebrew always adjusts verb forms based on the speaker's gender.
How do you ask someone to speak slower in Hebrew?
You can say 'Dabber le'at, bevakasha' (דַּבֵּר לְאַט בְּבַקָּשָׁה) — 'Speak slowly, please' (to a male). To a female: 'Dabbri le'at, bevakasha.' You can also say 'Od pa'am, bevakasha' — 'One more time, please.'
Do most Israelis speak English?
Yes — Israel has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the non-English-speaking world. English is taught from elementary school, and most Israelis under 60 can communicate in English. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken. However, learning basic Hebrew phrases is always appreciated and can enhance your experience.
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