Arabic Slang: 11 Arabic Phrases to Sound Like a Native Speaker
Posted by Filed under Observations
Mastering the Arabic language is not just about using proper grammar and spelling. There’s a whole world of Arabic slang that adds a real, down-to-earth vibe to your discourse while helping you mingle with native Arabic speakers.
That is why, today, we invite you to join us as we unravel 11 Arabic slang phrases, opening doors to not just words, but to a sense of belonging.
→Sign Up Now: Free Trial Arabic Lesson With a Native Teacher!←
1. Yallah – يل
“Yallah” is your go-to nudge in Arabic slang. It simply means “let’s go” or “come on,” adding a dash of urgency to any situation. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or rallying friends to hit the dance floor, this is one of the most handy Arabic phrases to urge someone to get going.
2. Bi Sharafak – بشرفك
“Bi Sharafak” is the secret weapon of Arabic slang for expressing surprise. When faced with a statement that leaves you incredulous or in doubt, this slang comes to the rescue. Picture this: your best friend dropping the bombshell that she’s finally getting married. In that moment of astonishment, a well-timed “Bi Sharafak” is the perfect Arabic slang term to add a touch of flair to your disbelief.
3. Eben Halal -ابن حلال
“Eben Halal” in Arabic slang is a nod to good character. Translating to “child of purity,” it’s a term reserved for those brimming with positive traits—honesty, pleasantness, politeness, and humility. So, when you encounter someone genuinely nice, labelling them as “Eben Halal” becomes a friendly acknowledgment of their standout qualities.
4. Ya Rab – يا رب
“Ya Rab” is a heartfelt plea in Arabic slang, translating to “Oh Lord.” It’s an expression infused with a mix of hope, desire, and a touch of urgency. Whether you’re wishing for success in an exam or hoping for a smooth commute, “Ya Rab” is your verbal talisman in times of need.
5. Khallas – خلاص
“Khallas” is a go-to word for all ages, meaning “to finish.” But it’s not just about wrapping things up; it’s the universal signal for “stop it,” “it’s over,” or “enough already.” Imagine this: your younger brother has been singing the same K-pop song all day, and you just want them to cut it out. That’s when “Khallas” steps in, the perfect phrase to say, “Stop singing, let’s have some peace!”
6. Hader – حاضر.
“Hader” is a useful Arabic term people use to mean they’re cool with something. This word literally translates to “present” and is the best way to express that you’re willing to do something or you approve of a plan or idea. So, if someone says “Hey, let’s go to the beach, you can just hit them with a “hader,” letting them know you’re up for it!
7. Inshallah – إن شاء الله
Saying “inshallah,” is like saying, “If it’s meant to be…” People often use it when they’re not exactly sure about something. Imagine, for example, that there is a draught in your city and your mother asks “Will it rain tomorrow?” You might respond with “inshallah,” meaning it depends on factors beyond your control, but you wish tomorrow could finally be the day.
8. Sabah al Kheir – صباح الخير
This Arabic slang phrase literally translates to “good morning,” but it has a playful twist. Mostly, people say “Sabah al Kheir” when teasing a friend who’s a bit slow to catch on to something. It’s like saying, “Good morning, you’ve finally woken up to the news!”
9. Kol Hawa – كل هوى
For a bit of slang among Arab youth, there’s “Kol Hawa.” It’s a light-hearted way to tell someone to “shut up,” but it’s more playful than harsh –you wouldn’t find it in our list of Arabic swear words! While it might feel a bit bold for foreigners, you’ll likely hear it tossed around in conversations with young Arab people.
10. Yaani – يَعْنِي
When you’re explaining something in Arabic and want to make it crystal clear, “yaani” is your sidekick. It’s like saying “I mean” and helps you throw in examples to make sure your point gets across. It’s a go-to for learners finding their way through Arabic conversations.
11. Mumkin – ممكن
“Mumkin” is a handy Arabic slang word that means “maybe” or “possible.” You can use it when you’re not entirely sure about something or when you’re open to a suggestion. For example, if someone asks if you want to grab coffee later, you can respond with “mumkin,” keeping it open-ended.
Beyond Arabic Slang Phrases: Learn Arabic Now
Delving into the richness of Arabic slang offers more than just language skills—it’s an exploration of diverse cultures, expressions, and vibrant conversations.
At Language Trainers, we invite you to join us on this exciting adventure of learning Arabic. Our dedicated team is committed to providing an immersive and engaging experience that goes beyond the textbooks, offering insights into the heart of the language and its cultural nuances.
→Sign Up Now: Free Trial Arabic Lesson With a Native Teacher!←
Whether you’re looking for in-person Arabic lessons in Melbourne or you want to learn how to speak Arabic in Perth, we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is contact Language Trainers now and we’ll match you with an experienced Arabic teacher for a free trial Arabic lesson with no strings attached.
So, what wait? Dive into the beauty of Arabic with us at Language Trainers—where every lesson is a step closer to a world of understanding and connection.