Yiddish Language Quiz | Test Your Knowledge of Yiddish Words!

The word 'Yiddish' repeated diagonally across a plain white background, representing the vibrant and expressive nature of the language.

How well do you know Yiddish?

Ever heard someone say chutzpah or kvetch and wondered what on earth they meant? Yiddish is bursting with expressive, colourful words, some so iconic they've slipped seamlessly into everyday English. From noshing on snacks to kvetching about the weather, these terms add flair and feeling in just a few syllables. ๐Ÿ’ฌ✨

So, are you ready to test your Yiddish know-how? Mazel tov if you ace it! ๐Ÿ˜‰


Tap to reveal the answer and see if you got it right!

Q1: In casual English, what does the Yiddish word "kibitz" mean? To give unwanted advice or comment (often while watching a game)

Q2: What does "chutzpah" mean in English? Audacity or boldness (sometimes excessive)

Q3: If someone is a "mensch," what kind of person are they? A good, honourable, and decent person

Q4: What is the meaning of "schlep"? To carry something heavy or travel a long, tiring way

Q5: The Yiddish phrase "Oy vey!" is often used to express what emotion? Dismay, frustration, or grief

Q6: What does "nosh" mean in Yiddish? A snack or to eat something lightly

Q7: If someone is a "schmuck," how are they being described? A fool or an obnoxious person

Q8: "Bubbe" and "zayde" are Yiddish words for what family members? Grandmother and grandfather

Q9: What does "kvetch" mean? To complain or whine persistently

Q10: What does "shpiel" mean in English? A long, sometimes persuasive speech or sales pitch

Q11: What does the phrase "mazel tov" mean? Congratulations or good luck

Q12: In Yiddish, what is a "shtetl"? A small Jewish town or village in Eastern Europe

Q13: "Gelt" is a Yiddish word often associated with Hanukkah. What does it mean? Money

Q14: What does "shlepper" refer to in Yiddish? A person who is untidy or struggles to get by

Q15: If someone is described as "farklempt," what does it mean? Choked up with emotion or overwhelmed

Q16: "Tsuris" is a Yiddish word that refers to what? Problems, troubles, or suffering

Q17: The Yiddish phrase "gonif" describes what kind of person? A thief or dishonest person

Q18: What does "shmegegge" mean? Nonsense or foolish talk

Q19: In Yiddish, what is a "balabusta"? A good or competent homemaker

Q20: "Plotz" means what in Yiddish? To collapse or burst from excitement or frustration


Check your score

Now it’s time to see how you did on your Yiddish knowledge!

17–20 correct: Yiddish Master ๐Ÿ’ฌ Mazel tov, you’re fluent in the art of Yiddish! You’ve got all the words and phrases down to perfection, and you can sprinkle them into any conversation. A+ for you! ๐ŸŒŸ

10–16 correct: Yiddish Enthusiast ๐Ÿ‘จ‍๐ŸŽค You’ve got a solid grasp on Yiddish! You know the iconic terms and can drop them with style. Keep it up, and soon you’ll be chatting like a true Yid! ✨

0–9 correct: Yiddish Beginner ๐Ÿง‘‍๐ŸŽ“ Looks like you’re just getting started with Yiddish. Don’t worry, it’s never too late to pick up more iconic words. Keep learning and before you know it, you’ll be throwing around those phrases like a pro! ๐Ÿ˜‰




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