10 Basic Arabic Words for Beginners

10 Basic Arabic words for beginners

Have you always wanted to learn Arabic in Dubai but thought it would be too difficult? Well, think again! Learning a new language can be daunting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. And with these 10 basic Arabic words, you’ll break the ice with your new friends and colleagues.

1. Shukran

if you want to thank someone in Arabic, say “shukran”. This simple word is used by all Arabic speakers and can be said for both small and large favors alike. Usually, the reply for shukran will be “Afwan” which means You are welcome.

2. Ma’ assalama

If someone says goodbye to you in Arabic, this is the phrase they will use. Also you’d use it in response: It literally means “with safety” or “be well,” but it’s used similarly to our English farewells.

3. Marhaba

You may have heard this word before; it’s often used as a greeting. It means “welcome” or “Hello”.

4. Khalas

Meaning: Enough / Done / Stop it / Ok

If you want to express that you’d like your conversation partner to stop talking, or if you want to tell someone that’s enough, use this word.

It means “enough,” and it’s used similarly to our English words “okay” or “stop it.”

5. Sabr

This is a very important word in Arabic, as it can mean “patience” or “perseverance.” If you want to tell someone that you’re going to keep trying, or if you want to tell them to wait this is the word to use

6. La

This is another important word in Arabic, and it’s often used as a standalone. It means “no,” and can be used similarly to our English words “don’t” or “not.”

7. Masha’ ALLAH

This phrase may sound familiar, as it’s often used in Arabic music or poetry. It means “as God wills,” and can be used to express joy or appreciation for what someone has done.

8. In sha’ ALLAH

If you want to tell someone that you will do something “if God wills,” this is the phrase for you. It means “if God wills it” or “God willing.” This is often used when talking about future plans or goals.

9. Ma fee mushkela

This is another important phrase to know when learning Arabic, as it means “no problem.” If someone thanks you for doing something or compliments you on your work, use this phrase to let them know that there’s no need.

10. yaa’ni

This is a common phrase in Arabic, and it means “that is to say” or “it means…?” If you want to ask someone to clarify something or if you want them to elaborate on their statement, you can use this phrase. It’s very common in everyday speech, and most Arabic speakers will be familiar with its meaning.

Learning Arabic is a challenging but rewarding process, and these 10 basic words are a good place to start. Whether you’re just beginning your language journey or if you’ve been studying for years, these words will help you communicate effectively with Arabic speakers around the world. Best of luck on your language-learning journey!​

FAQs

Q: Can I use other greetings besides “marhaba” and “shukran”?

A: Yes, there are many different ways to greet someone in Arabic. Other popular choices include as-salamu alaykum (“peace be upon you”) and ahlan wa sahlan (“welcome”). Additionally, you can use a specific greeting depending on the time of day, such as masaa’ al-khair (“good evening”) or sabaah al-khair (“good morning”).

Q: How can I say my name is… in Arabic?

A: To say your name is in Arabic, you can use the phrase ismee…

For example, “ismee Mohammad“

Or Ismee Mozn.”

Alternatively, you can use the phrase “ana = I am” followed by your name.

For example, “ana Mozn.” This can be used in formal situations to introduce yourself in Arabic or in casual conversations as a way to identify yourself.

Q: How do I respond to someone when they say shukran?

A: If someone offers thanks or compliments to you in Arabic, one common response is “Afwan” (“no thanks”). Alternatively, you can say ma fee mushkela (which means “there is no problem” “don’t mention it”) as a simple and direct way to respond.

Q: How many letters are there in the Arabic alphabet?

A: There are 28 letters in the Arabic alphabet, including both consonants and vowels.

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