Marhaba! One of the easiest ways to learn a new language is by beginning with basic and most common expressions (عبارات شائعة). Given the fact most of these expressions are extremely short and can be used with different people across various places, I want to discuss the 3 most common Arabic expressions.  Any one of these expressions might be helpful for you when you make new friends/have friends from the Arab world and/or when you visit any country in the Arabic speaking world.

The first most common Arabic expression is (which I always use when I begin my posts): Marhaba Beekum (مرحبا بكم)! The equivalent in English is: Welcome to all of you!

You can pronounce it this way: MAR – HAH -BAA   BEE – KOOM

This is by far one of the most common Arabic expressions.  This refers to welcoming your family, guests or friends be it over a meal or just when you see them. In most Arab countries, Marhaba Beekum is usually followed by a hug or a kiss on the cheek. If you have met or have friends that are Arabic native speakers, you have definitely heard this expression in loud and warm tone. Next time you see these friends or meet new ones, you can easily greet them with this short but emotionally charged expression!

The second most common Arabic expression is: insh’allah (ان شاء الله)! The equivalent in English is: If God wishes it to be or God willing.

You can pronounce it this way: INCHA – LLA

This beautiful expression is widely echoed and repeated in the Arab world and you can most definitely pick it up if you were to watch any popular TV show or movie produced in any of the Arab states. It is popular when discussing future plans and events and to signify a deep commitment between a believer and God. If someone were to ask you about your vacation plans or any other future plan, the most common answer you would hear in the Arab world is usually preceded or followed by insh’allah.

The third most common Arabic expression is: Mabrouk (مبروك)! The equivalent in English is: Blessing upon you and in other cases Congratulations!

You can pronounce it this way: MAB – ROOK

The root of the word Mabrouk is from Baraka (بركة),(pronounce it this way: BA-RA-KA), which means blessing. Mabrouk is used in every occasion that one has the chance to say congratulations. Be it any joyous occasion from weddings (زواج\ عرس), engagements (خطوبة), graduation parties (حفلات تخرّج) to buying a new car, a new phone or anything that invites the equivalent usage of congratulations. Mabrouk is a very common Arabic expression and you can use it next time one of your friends buys something new, graduates from school or gets engaged or married.

Stay tuned for upcoming posts.

Have a nice day!

نهاركم سعيد