goy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Ethnic/In-group
Quick answer
What does “goy” mean?
A Yiddish term for a non-Jewish person.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A Yiddish term for a non-Jewish person.
In broader usage, primarily within Jewish communities, to refer to a person not of Jewish faith or heritage. The term can be neutral or carry implications of cultural separation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in core meaning. Likely more frequent in American English due to larger, more established Ashkenazi Jewish communities.
Connotations
Identical connotations; dependent on context and speaker intent.
Frequency
More frequent in American English, particularly in areas with significant Jewish populations (e.g., New York).
Grammar
How to Use “goy” in a Sentence
[determiner] + goythe + goyimVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “goy” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has some very goyish tastes in decor.
- That's a bit goy, isn't it?
American English
- She made a goyish version of the recipe with bacon.
- It felt too goy to have the party on Christmas Eve.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in theological, sociological, or cultural studies discussing Jewish identity and intergroup relations.
Everyday
Used in informal conversation within Jewish communities.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “goy”
- Using it in formal or mixed-faith settings without awareness of its in-group nature.
- Assuming it is always derogatory.
- Misspelling as 'goyim' for singular (goyim is plural).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not inherently offensive but is an in-group term. Its use by a non-Jew to describe a Jew would be incorrect and likely offensive. Its reception when used by Jews depends on context and intent, ranging from neutral to mildly pejorative.
The plural is 'goyim' (from Hebrew/Yiddish).
Yes, the adjective form is 'goyish' (also 'goyishe'). It describes something characteristic of or pertaining to non-Jews.
'Gentile' is the standard, more formal English term, used in religious and neutral contexts. 'Goy' is the Yiddish-derived, informal, in-group equivalent, carrying more cultural weight and potential for humorous or critical nuance.
A Yiddish term for a non-Jewish person.
Goy is usually informal, ethnic/in-group in register.
Goy: in British English it is pronounced /ɡɔɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡɔɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “What does a goy know?”
- “good for the goyim (often ironic)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'boy' – a 'goy' is just a boy (or girl) who isn't Jewish.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE OUT-GROUP IS A SEPARATE NATION.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'goy' MOST appropriately used?