The verbal noun in Nif’al expresses a passive, reflexive, or inward-directed action as a noun – like “separation,” “self-protection,” or “entering.” It’s used to describe the act or process itself, often as a subject or object in a sentence.
Structure
- Begins with הִ־
- Common pattern: הִתְקַטְלוּת or הִפָּעָלוּת
- Often ends in -וּת, forming abstract nouns
- Reflects the passive or reflexive nature of Nif’al verbs
Examples
| Verb (Nif’al) | Meaning | Verbal Noun | Meaning of Noun |
|---|---|---|---|
| נִפְרַד | to separate | הִפְּרָדוּת | separation |
| נִשְׁמַר | to be guarded / protected | הִשָּׁמְרוּת | self-protection / caution |
| נִכְנַס | to enter | הִכָּנְסוּת | entering / entry |