The Hebrew verb “לְהַכִּין” (lehakhin) primarily means “to prepare.”
It comes from the root כ-ו-ן (k-w-n), which is associated with preparation, readiness, and establishment.
Forms and Examples:
- Infinitive: לְהַכִּין – to prepare
- Past (he): הֵכִין – he prepared
- Present (m. sg.): מֵכִין – preparing (m.)
- Future (he): יָכִין – he will prepare
Example Sentences:
- אני צריך להכין שיעורים.
Ani tsarikh lehakhin shi’urim.
→ I need to prepare homework. - היא מכינה ארוחת ערב.
Hi mekhina arukhat erev.
→ She is preparing dinner.
Exactly! Here’s a clear breakdown of the two Hebrew verbs you mentioned, perfect for learners:
📘 1. להכין – le’hakhin
Meaning: to prepare (something)
Verb root: כ־ו־ן (k-w-n)
Binyan: Hif’il – the causative form
🔹 Usage: This is a transitive verb – it takes a direct object.
🔹 You are actively preparing something – food, a plan, a presentation, etc.
📌 Examples:
- אני צריך להכין שיעורי בית.
I need to prepare (do) my homework. - היא מכינה עוגה ליום הולדת.
She is preparing a cake for the birthday.
📙 2. להתכונן – lehitkonen
Meaning: to get ready, to prepare oneself
Verb root: כ־ו־ן
Binyan: Hitpa’el – the reflexive form
🔹 Usage: This is intransitive – the subject is preparing themself.
🔹 It’s about getting prepared, either mentally, physically, or practically.
📌 Examples:
- אנחנו צריכים להתכונן לבחינה.
We need to get ready for the exam. - הוא מתכונן לטיול הגדול.
He is preparing (himself) for the big trip.
🧠 Memory tip:
- להכין = to make ready (like “cook” or “build” – you’re doing something)
- להתכונן = to get yourself ready (like “pack your bag,” “study,” “psych up”)
