What Language Do They Speak in Israel?

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Israel

Israel is a vibrant and diverse country located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, along the eastern Mediterranean coastline. Known for its rich history dating back thousands of years, Israel is home to significant religious sites, including Jerusalem with its complex cultural heritage. Despite its small size, Israel is recognized globally for its technological innovation, robust economy, and unique cultural offerings.

Languages Spoken

In Israel, a country characterized by its rich tapestry of cultures and histories, a diverse array of languages is spoken. Hebrew, the official language, is spoken by 49.76% of the population. Arabic, also an official language, is spoken by 17.35% of the people, reflecting the country's significant Arab minority. Russian is spoken by 15.81% of the population, a testament to the sizable community of Russian immigrants. Over 5.67% of the population communicates in English, which is widely taught and used as a second language. French speakers make up 3.99%, while Yiddish, often spoken within the ultra-Orthodox communities, accounts for 3%. Spanish is spoken by 2.02% of the populace, influenced by immigrants and returning Israelis from Latin America, and Amharic is spoken by 1.4%, primarily by the Ethiopian Jewish population. This linguistic diversity mirrors Israel's dynamic cultural fabric, where traditions and languages converge from around the globe.

Different Languages Spoken in Israel

Language data last updated 2024 est. from World Population Review - Israel

LanguageUsage
Hebrew49.76%
Arabic17.35%
Russian15.81%
English5.67%
French3.99%
Yiddish3%
Spanish2.02%
Amharic1.4%
Note: The total may add up to more than 100% as people may speak multiple languages

Useful Hebrew Phrases

Learn these phrases if you're planning on traveling to Israel

שלום

Hello

A common greeting used throughout the day.

מה שלומך?

How are you?

A polite way to inquire about someone's well-being.

כמה זה עולה?

How much does it cost?

Useful for shopping or dining out to ask for prices.

איפה זה נמצא?

Where is it?

Helpful for asking directions or locating places.

תודה רבה

Thank you very much

A courteous way to express gratitude.

Learn to speak Hebrew

Interested in speaking Hebrew in Israel? Using Lingocat you can learn the basics of the language and start speaking in no time with the help of our AI Language Tutors.

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