Hitpael

Hitpael is one of the Hebrew verb binyanim (stems) used to form a class of reflexive, reciprocal, or middle-voice actions. In many cases the action is directed back on the subject, done by the subject for its own sake, or involves involvement with others. The stem is typically marked by a distinctive prefix and vowel patterns that differentiate it from other binyanim.

Form and use. The Hitpael formation commonly involves adding a hit- prefix to the base verb, with the infinitive frequently appearing as להת- + root in modern Hebrew (for example, להתלבש). In biblical and modern usage the prefix appears as a reflexive/middle marker and can alter the nuance of the root’s basic meaning. Conjugation patterns vary by root and tense, but the sense of self-directed action, reciprocal action, or iterative emphasis remains central. The Hitpael is also used to express actions that the subject performs on itself, for someone else mutually, or to describe a repeated or intensive action.

Common examples. Examples of Hitpael verbs include להתלבש (to dress oneself), להתרגש (to become excited), להתכונן (to prepare oneself), להתאמץ (to exert oneself), להתראות (to see each other / to say goodbye), להתפשר (to compromise oneself, in a sense of reaching agreement), and להיפגש (to meet each other). These verbs illustrate the typical reflexive, reciprocal, and sometimes iterative or intensive nuances characteristic of the Hitpael binyan.

Historical and lexical notes. Hitpael appears in Biblical Hebrew and is productive in Modern Hebrew, with many common daily verbs formed in this stem. Its exact vowel patterns and irregularities depend on the root, but its core function as a middle/reflexive or reciprocal voice remains consistent.