When you have been studying a language for a while, you may feel drawn to the country where it originated. As you learn ten popular Arabic phrases before setting out to these popular destinations, you will likely find your interest in locations, cultures, people, and more. Old but gold, the faithful ‘thank you’ has always come in handy. Similarly, a reply ‘you’re welcome in Arabic’ can help you win some hearts of the locals. Read on to learn top 5 Arabic phrases that can save you from awkwardness or clueless grins.
#1 Marhaba – “Hello/Hi”
No matter where you are traveling in the Arabic world, a courteous ‘marhaba’ will always render a smile. Throughout my travels from North Africa to the Middle East, this Arabic salutation is always rewarding. Not only adds an extra flavor to your trip, saying ‘Hello’ in Arabic could make a considerable difference in earning trust and building great relationships.
Interestingly, if you find saying ‘Hello’ not enough, never worry about starting a casual conversation with many hellos. ‘Marahib’, the plural form of Marhaba, is always welcomed with appreciation. Whether you come into a store, ask for help, or make the first move towards someone you just encountered, this simple act can really work. Marahib!
Bonus Tip
You may know the best that Arabic is the main language across 22 countries. However, some cultural phrases may vary from one to another, including ‘marbaha’. For example, people in Lebanon say ‘Cava’ to greet someone they met rather than go with ‘Marbaha’.
#2 Good Morning In Arabic
‘Sabah el Kheir’ is a plain and straightforward way to say ‘good morning’ in Arabic. More than just a salutation, this phrase can help others start their days with a brilliant mood. In my humble opinion, saying ‘good morning’ when you first see a person at the start of the day is the sweetest greeting ever.
Also, a courteous reply is appreciated and can bring a smile to some strangers you encounter. ‘Sabah el Noor’ can definitely fit the context. A typical conversation will go like that:
- Sabah el Kheir!
- Sabah el Noor!
And then, you move on with your day.
Bonus Tip
Ideally, Arabs acknowledge the one they are greeting by considering their genders and the number of people. At some point, it can be looked at as a tough formula. But if you can complete your phrase by adding another word to it, it will pay off. Addressing the right person will always lead to an endless loop of kindness and warmth.
You may not want to miss out on this general breakdown before heading towards an Arabic country.
- Sabahak is for masculine
- Sabahik is for feminine
- Sabahkon is for plural
#3 Good Evening In Arabic
Surviving in a country where English is not widely spoken can be challenging. Imagine it is getting dark outside, and you just arrive at a store. What would you say to ask for help? Or just to break the ice? Apparently, you need to know what ‘good evening’ in Arabic is. Here is the thing.
You can say ‘Masaa al-Khair’ as a greeting in the late afternoon or in the evening or night time.
This phrase is easy to use as it doesn’t require conjugation. No matter who you are speaking to, a male, a female, or a group, this salutation will work.
Bonus Tip
Frankly, Arabs always expect a reply. That said, don’t forget to say ‘Masaa’ an-noor’ as a polite response to ‘Masaa al-Khair’.
#3 Thank You in Arabic
Personally, there is perhaps no way more admirable than a simple ‘thank you’ to show your willingness or to end an interaction. For those coming to the Arabic world, a simple and heartfelt ‘shukran’ can win hearts of the locals. But don’t forget to say it with all your heart, locals will absolutely love it.
Bonus Tip
The term ‘shukran’ can be applicable to every country in Arabic. What if you know more ways to express your gratitude towards others? Here are some other expressions that can help you get a nice kickstart.
- Shukran Jazeelan: Thank you very much.
It can be regarded as a further step to truly express how grateful you are.
- Mashkoor: I am grateful.
If you want to exactly address the one you are speaking to, use ‘mashkoor’ for masculine, ‘mashkoora’ for feminine.
- Ashkuruk: Thank you.
Besides ‘shukran’, ‘ashkuruk’ is another short way to thank somebody. In case you address a woman, you should say ‘ashkuruki’.
Regarding a thank, why don’t you head towards how to say thank you in Thai? Plenty is going for it.
So, do you know the best reply to ‘shukran’? Keep scrolling to find out how to say ‘you’re welcome’ in Arabic.
#4 You’re Welcome In Arabic
It is fair to say that Arabs focus on one aspect: etiquette. That said, when coming to any Arab country, you should be well-equipped with your manners. Besides learning a common phrase like ‘thank you’ in Arabic, it is better to know a reply. I’m sure you don’t want to miss out on ‘you’re welcome’ in Arabic.
- ‘Afwan or Al-‘afw
Both ways are common in Arabic dialects. Apart from referring to ‘you’re welcome in Arabic’, you can use them as a quick apology, like ‘pardon’.
- Aala ar-raHb wa as-si’aa
Though not as common as the earlier mentioned, this phrase is familiar in every Arabic dialect.
- Laa shokr ‘aala waajib
It is a humble way to say ‘you’re welcome’ in Arabic. While what you do for them is not a big deal, saying this phrase might get the other to continue to thank you again and again. Be ready for a rain of praise.
The Last Thought
Now you have it: five Arabic phrases you need to know before going to one of the most popular destinations, including ‘you’re welcome’ in Arabic. It is important to note that when you speak the language, you immerse yourself in it and are ready to blend into the community. This way, the next time someone throws you a common ‘Marhaba’ or ‘Shukran’ at you, you will be prepared!
Do not miss out on more advice to have a perfect trip. Enjoy your fun trip!
