Hebrew Vowels -

Simple U-Type Vowels

The last vowel group you will learn is sometimes called the “U-type” because it indicates an “oo” sound (as in “blue” or “clue”) when combined with a letter. U-type vowels can have the following vowel patterns:
U-Type Vowel Patterns

Note that the “X” refers to any Hebrew letter (for example Aleph, Bet, and so on) and the rectangular box below the letter refers to a one the following types of vowel marks (nikkudim):
U-type Vowels

Notes:
  • Although these vowel marks look different, they both represent an “oo”sound.
  • Note which vowel is short (Qibbuts) and which is long (Shureq).
  • Unlike other vowels, Shureq is sometimes used to start a word.

Basic Syllables

A syllable is called “open” when it does
not end with a “stopping” sound:

A syllable is called “closed” when it ends
with a “stopping” sound:

Shureq Long Vowel

Qibbuts Short Vowel

Open Syllables:
Open Syllables

Closed Syllables:
Closed Syllables

Practice Readings

One syllable:
Practice Reading

Two syllables:
Practice Reading

Three / more syllables:
Practice Reading

Quick Summary:
U-Type vowels

More Practice Pages

Transliteration Practice:
Transliteration Exercise

Return to Unit Two Contents


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