Understanding the Hebrew Verb “Lipol” – Why ליפול Looks Irregular but Actually Is Not

The verb ליפול – lipol (to fall) is one of those verbs that almost every Hebrew learner misunderstands at first glance. In my video on this topic, I break down why the infinitive and the future tense look so different, even though the past and present behave normally. The key is simple:

The root נ־פ־ל loses its first letter in certain forms.

Keeping that in mind, the whole verb stops being mysterious.

The Past and Present Are Completely Regular

In the video, I show you the easiest part of the conjugation: the past and present tense. Here, the root is stable and behaves exactly like a normal verb. Nothing feels irregular, and this is why students feel confident with these two tenses.

Because of that, when the shape suddenly changes in the future tense (not to mention the infinitive), it creates the impression that something is wrong. But the verb is actually consistent once you understand the pattern.

Why the Infinitive Looks Different

The first real challenge is the infinitive ליפול. In my explanation, I show that the first root letter drops and, for better readability, got replaced by yud, which hides part of the root and makes the form look unrelated to נ־פ־ל.

Once you understand this drop — which happens in only a small group of Hebrew verbs — the infinitive immediately makes sense.

Why the Future Tense Changes Shape

After the infinitive, I show you the future tense, where the same thing happens: the first root letter disappears in the construction and gets replaced by yud.

This is why students struggle to recognize the future forms of ליפול. But there is no irregularity. The pattern is consistent and completely logical once you see how the verb is built.

In the video, I walk through this step by step so you can see the structure clearly.

Use it or lose it

In the end, all is practice and getting used to it. When you know that אני נפלתי means "I fell", you have the key in your hands to open the rest of the conjugation.

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FAQ / Take-aways

What is the meaning of ליפול in Hebrew?

It means “to fall.” It is a verb built from the root נ־פ־ל.

Why does the verb ליפול look irregular?

Because the first root letter drops in the infinitive and future tense, which changes the shape.

Is ליפול truly irregular?

No. The past and present forms are regular. The changes follow a clear pattern.

How can I learn more Hebrew verbs easily?

If you're just starting out with Hebrew, consider downloading Rut Avni's free e-book "How to learn Hebrew verbs - Stop the pain now".