The Arabic language is filled with metaphors and proverbs that add color to mundane conversations any time of day.
Want to criticize/compliment/insult someone? Arabic expressions are your go-to, and we actually don't know how English speakers get on their day without them!
1. Terbeeh Jmeeli
You've gotten yourself in a situation where you're conversing with someone who just loves using "bargaining chips" to make you feel underappreciated.
Person A: If you don't want to come, just don't. I'm just saying it would be nice.
Person B: I do so much for you! Like, remember that time I drove 1 hour just to pick you up and then spent another hour in traffic on my way back?
Person A: Mat rabehni jmeeli. Khalas, just don't come.
2. Sa7ah
No, this is not the equivalent of "God Bless You" because you don't say that when someone coughs. It's a special thing for sneezes.
But, it's not fair, coughs deserve a "bless you" too!
3. Na3iman
"Congratulations on your shower" just doesn't cut it. But then what do you say when someone takes a shower or gets a haircut?
Life is too hard.
4. Ya3teek el 3afye
"May the force be with you" ... it sounds way too deep when in reality it's just a phrase said as a gesture to show appreciation for hard work.
5. Damo t2eel
How do you describe someone who is just annoying, arrogant, not funny, uptight all in one?
The expression "damo t2eel", which encapsulates all the above and which literally translates to "one with heavy blood" just doesn't exist in English.
6. Smallah
Wow, you look so good...followed by a knock on wood? Maybe. No it doesn't do the word justice.
7. Bitwafir/Bitwafri
You cost me less?
It's basically another way of telling someone you're better off without that person.
Person A: Khalas I've got the bill today.
Person B: No, you're not paying for me *high pitch, crazy look*
Person A: Chill out man. Khalas OK pay yourself. Bitwafri.
8. 3a2balik
"Till your turn!?"
9. Bayed tanajer
Its something we use to describe someone who is basically a "suck up" ... but the saying is much more powerful than just calling someone a kiss-ass.
It's meaning gets completely lost in translation, because if literally translated it would be: "squeaky clean your pots"