Learning a new language is a fulfilling endeavor, and Arabic is no different. With its rich history and cultural significance, this beautiful language can open up a new world of experiences for you. To get started, we’ll go through some basic Arabic expressions that are useful for daily use. Each phrase is accompanied by a definition and an example sentence. So let’s dive in!

السلام عليكم (As-salamu alaykum)
This is how to say “Hello” in Arabic, and it literally translates to “Peace be upon you.” This greeting is universally understood among Arabic speakers and is appropriate for use at any time of the day.
عندما التقيت بأحمد، قلت له السلام عليكم. (When I met Ahmed, I said to him, “As-salamu alaykum.”)

مع السلامة (Ma’a as-salama)
The equivalent of “Goodbye” in Arabic. It directly translates to “With peace” and is a polite way to bid someone farewell.
عندما كان جميل يغادر الحفلة، قال للجميع مع السلامة. (When Jamil was leaving the party, he said to everyone, “Ma’a as-salama.”)

شكراً (Shukran)
This word means “Thank you.” It’s a versatile expression used to show gratitude in any context, whether big or small.
لقد ساعدتني كثيرًا، شكراً لك. (You have helped me a lot, thank you.)

من فضلك (Min fadlak/fadlik)
Used to say “Please,” with “Min fadlak” being the male form and “Min fadlik” the female. This form is crucial when making requests or asking for favors politely.
هل يمكنك إعطائي الكتاب، من فضلك؟ (Can you give me the book, please?)

نعم (Na’am)
This is the simple word for “Yes.” When agreeing to a question or confirming something, “Na’am” is the word to use.
هل أنت جاهز للذهاب؟ نعم، أنا جاهز. (Are you ready to go? Yes, I am ready.)

لا (La)
Conversely, “No” in Arabic is as simple as saying “La.” This negative response can be used respectfully in various situations.
هل تريد المزيد من الطعام؟ لا، شكراً. (Do you want more food? No, thank you.)

كم الساعة؟ (Kam as-sa’ah?)
When you need to ask, “What time is it?” this is the phrase you would use. Checking the time is a common and practical question in daily life.
عندما استيقظت من النوم، سألت كم الساعة؟ (When I woke up, I asked, “What time is it?”)

أين…؟ (Ayna…?)
Whenever you need to inquire about the location of something, start with “Ayna,” which means “Where is…?” A straightforward but essential question for travelers and learners alike.
أين الفندق؟ أريد أن أذهب إلى هناك. (Where is the hotel? I want to go there.)

أريد… (Ureed…)
If you need to say “I want…” or “I would like…” in Arabic, “Ureed” is the term to use, preceding the object of your desire or need.
أريد كوباً من القهوة من فضلك. (I would like a cup of coffee, please.)

أنا أسف(ة) (Ana asif/asifa)
To express “I’m sorry,” men say “Ana asif” and women say “Ana asifa.” It’s an expression of apology or politeness.
لقد أخطأت في الوقت، أنا أسف. (I got the time wrong, I’m sorry.)

كيف حالك؟ (Kaifa halak/halik?)
This is the Arabic way to ask someone “How are you?” with “Kaifa halak” used when speaking to males and “Kaifa halik” for females. It’s a common conversation starter.
عندما رأيت صديقي في السوق، سألته كيف حالك؟ (When I saw my friend in the market, I asked him, “How are you?”)

بخير، شكرًا (Bikhair, shukran)
This phrase means “I’m fine, thank you,” and it’s a classic response to “How are you?” It conveys that you are doing well and is a polite way to continue the conversation.
عندما سألني البائع عن حالي، أجبته بخير، شكرًا. (When the seller asked me how I was, I responded with “I’m fine, thank you.”)

With these essential phrases in your pocket, you’ll be well on your way to navigating basic daily interactions in the Arabic-speaking world. Remember, practice makes perfect, so use these expressions often to build up your confidence and fluency. Happy learning!