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Arabic is a rich language offering numerous ways to express gratitude. With various dialects across the Arab-speaking world, you have ample options to convey your appreciation. Whether you're aiming for common phrases or regional expressions, this guide has you covered, ensuring you can leave a lasting impression by saying 'thank you' in Arabic.
Steps
How to Express Thanks in Modern Standard Arabic
'Shukran' (شكراً) - a simple yet powerful way to say 'thank you.' This versatile phrase is suitable for all Arabic-speaking countries and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, regardless of the Arabic dialect spoken. Derived from the root word 'shakara,' meaning 'to thank,' 'shukran' can be casually uttered to express gratitude for assistance received.
- In response to 'shukran,' you can reply with 'al-’awfoo' (العفو) or '‘af-waan' (عفواً), which translate to 'you're pardoned' but convey 'you're welcome' or 'no problem.'
'Ashkuraka' (أَشْكُرُك) allows you to swiftly convey gratitude. Though brief, it carries formality, perfect for interactions with colleagues or elders to foster rapport and respect.
- A brief response to 'ashkuraka' is 'ahlan wa sahlan' (أهلا و سهلا), meaning 'welcome.'
'Yekather khairak/ek' (يكثر خيرك) is a gentle wish for increased welfare. After receiving a favor, express gratitude and wish abundant blessings upon the doer.
- A thoughtful response is 'wa Antum fa Jazakumullahu khayran' (ﻭَﺃَﻧْﺘُﻢْ ﻓَﺠَﺰَﺍﻛُﻢُ ﺍﻟﻠَّﻪُ ﺧَﻴْﺮًﺍ), meaning 'and you too, May Allah reward with Goodness.'
'Baraka Allahou Feek' (بارك اللَّه فيك) expresses gratitude and invokes blessings. Common among Muslims in Arab-speaking countries, it captures goodwill towards a thoughtful person.
- Reply with 'jazakallah khiran' (جزاك الله خير), a prayer for divine rewards.
Jane Wightwick, a Leading Expert in Arabic Language
One of the key Arabic phrases to learn is 'shukran,' meaning ‘thank you.’ Expressions of gratitude are essential in polite Arabic culture, from buying bread to dining out. Use ‘shukran’ or the more formal ‘shukran jazeelan’ sincerely after receiving assistance or a kind gesture.
Interested in expressing gratitude in different Arabic dialects?
Syria and Lebanon: Expressing gratitude in the Levant is beautifully nuanced. Saying 'Shoukran Ktir' (شُكْراً كْتير ) goes beyond a simple 'thank you.' It's a heartfelt acknowledgment reserved for those who've truly enriched your life. The phrase 'Ktir' emphasizes the depth of your appreciation.
- Respond with 'ahlan wa sahlan' (أَهْلًا وَسَهْلًا), which means 'welcome.'
Around Lebanon and Syria: When in the region, saying 'Betshakkarak/ek' (بِاتْشَكَّرِك / بِاتْشَكَّرَك) is a courteous way to express gratitude. Use 'betshakkarak' when addressing men and 'betshakkarek' for women. This phrase is recognizable in Modern Standard Arabic.
- Reply with 'wala yhemmak' (ولا يهمك), a casual way to say, 'don't worry about it.'
In Syria: In formal settings, such as business meetings, expressing gratitude is essential. Say 'Mumtanon Lak/Mumtanaton Laka' (مُمْتَنةٌ لك / مُمْتَن لك) to convey appreciation. Use 'mumtanon lak' for men and 'mumtanaton laka' for women.
- Answer back with 'ala ar-ruhbi wa as-sa’a' (على الرحب والسّعة), which simply means 'you're welcome.'
In Egypt: Gratitude is deeply embedded in Egyptian culture. Saying 'Moutashaker Awi' (متشكر اوي) acknowledges immense generosity. Whether formal or informal, this phrase conveys profound thanks.
- Accept these words of gratitude with 'ash-shukru lillah' (الشكر لله), a formal expression that means 'all thanks to Allah.'
Around Egypt: When in professional or formal settings in Egypt, saying 'Mutashakker/Mutashakkerah' ( مُتَشَكِّرة / مُتَشَكِّر ) is appropriate. Use 'mutashakker' for men and 'mutashakkerah' for women.
- Respond with a remark like tekram (تكرم) if you're speaking to a male or tekrami (تكرمي) when you're addressing a female—both mean 'you're so kind.'
In Gulf countries: Express gratitude in the Gulf with finesse by saying 'Mashkoor/Mashkoorah' (مَشْكُورة / مَشْكُور ). It's a formal acknowledgment reserved for those who've supported you—whether colleagues, mentors, or elders. Address men with 'mashkoor' and women with 'mashkoorah.'
- Highly respected individuals can reply with a simple 'ahlan wa sahlan' (أهلا و سهلا), or 'welcome.'
In the United Arab Emirates: Show respect and gratitude with 'Shakeron Lak/Shakeraton Lak' (شَاكِرةٌ لك) / (شَاكِرٌ لك). This Emirati Arabic expression is used to express thanks in a very respectful tone.
- To remain humble, reply with 'ash-shukru lillah' (الشكر لله) to say 'all thanks to Allah.'
Other Expressions of Gratitude in Arabic
'Tislam/Tislami' (تسلم/ تسلمي): 'Be well!' Originating from the root word 'salama,' which means to 'come out safe or healthy,' this phrase is widely used in the Levant and some parts of the Gulf. Use 'tislam' for a man and 'tislami' for a woman to bless someone who has given you a gift or favor.
- To further bless the giver, add 'ideyk' (إيديك) for a male or 'ideyki' (إيديكي) for a female, changing the expression to 'may your hands enjoy health.'
'Yeslamou' (يسلموا): 'May your hands stay safe.' In Syria or Lebanon, saying this expresses politeness and respect to someone who has served you—such as a waiter or contractor. It's a kind gesture acknowledging their hard work.
'Ea'esht' (عشت): 'May you live a long life.' Share this heartfelt sentiment in Syria and Lebanon. It's a way to bring joy to someone's heart by expressing your appreciation for them.
'Yea'yshak' (يِعَيِّشَك): 'May God give you a long life.' This formal phrase, commonly used in Tunisia, serves as a special prayer. Use it to demonstrate your faith, convey your best wishes, and seek blessings on someone's behalf.
'Nā etʿallemt ḥāgāt ketīr ʾawī besababak' (أنا اتعلمت حاجات كتير أوي بسببك): 'I have learned so much thanks to you.' If you're improving your Modern Standard Arabic skills and your teacher provides excellent lessons, offer them this genuine compliment. It's also a wonderful way to commend any mentor in your life.
'Ma Qassart'/'Ma Qassarti' (ما قَصَّرتِي / ما قَصَّرْت): 'You did the best you could and you didn’t limit your kindness or favor on me.' In Modern Standard Arabic, this eloquent expression reflects the significant effort someone has invested in supporting you. Use this thoughtful phrase to express your deep appreciation.
