Hebrew Language Academy Corrects Common Pluralization Errors

The Academy of the Hebrew Language has released a video to address common mistakes in Hebrew pluralization, particularly among soldiers and the general public. The video, presented in a youthful style with actors, aims to correct widespread errors that are becoming ingrained in the language.

One key correction focuses on the word for helmet, 'ksada' (קַסְדָּה) in the singular. While many pronounce the plural as 'ksadot' with a vowel sound similar to 'segol', the Academy emphasizes the correct plural is 'ksadot' (קְסָדוֹת), with a 'shva nach' (a silent vowel sound) on the first syllable, similar to how 'draga' (דרגה) becomes 'dragot' (דרגות) in the plural.

Another correction targets the word for ages. The Academy states that 'gila' (גיל) in the plural should be 'gilim' (גילִים) when referring to children born in different years. The form 'gila'im' (גילָאִים) should only be used when referring to two people of the same age.

The video also addresses the word for screen, 'masach' (מָסַךְ). The correct plural is 'masachim' (מָסַכִּים), with a strong emphasis on the 'ch' sound, not 'masachim' (מסחים) as is often mistakenly pronounced. This distinction is important for separating parents from children, for example.

Finally, the Academy touches on the plural of 'karnaf' (קרנף), a rhinoceros. The plural is 'karnafim' (קַרְנַפִּים), explained as a portmanteau of 'keren' (קרן - horn) and 'af' (אף - nose). The emphasis on the 'f' sound in the plural compensates for the absorbed 'n' from the root word. This example, though less common, was illustrated with a zoo visit scenario.

The update concludes by reiterating the correct plurals: 'ksadot' with a 'shva nach', 'gilim' for children of different ages, and 'masachim' with a strong emphasis.