Discover Lebanese Culture Through 5 Common Lebanese Idioms

The Beauty of Lebanese Idioms

Arabic is a language full of colorful expressions and idioms that add depth and character to everyday conversations. Each dialect brings unique phrases, revealing something special about the culture that shapes it. While Modern Standard Arabic forms the foundation, local dialects like Lebanese Arabic are rich with idioms that express humor, wisdom and shared cultural values.

In Lebanon, idioms are more than just phrases; they are tiny windows into the country’s personality. From showing empathy to adding a bit of playful sarcasm, these expressions help you communicate in ways that feel authentic and alive. Here, we introduce 5 must-know Lebanese idioms to enrich your Arabic language learning experience, letting you connect with native speakers on a deeper level.

1. فخار يكسر بعضه
Fokhaar yeksor ba3do (Let the pottery break itself)

This idiom is a humorous way of expressing non-involvement in someone else’s conflict, like saying, “Let them deal with it themselves.”

Imagine a situation where two friends are in a minor disagreement; rather than taking sides or intervening, a bystander might shrug and say, “Fokhaar yeksor ba3do.” It reflects a laid-back approach to interpersonal issues, giving a glimpse into the Lebanese tendency to let things play out.

2. طب الجرة ع تمها بتطلع البنت لامها
Tobb el jarra 3a temma btetla3 el bint la emma (The daughter takes after her mother)

This idiom is often used to acknowledge family traits, suggesting daughters often resemble their mothers.

3arabian offers online Arabic tutor sessions for students who want to explore real-life expressions like this, making the journey to learning Arabic for non-Arabic speakers both authentic and engaging.

3. قلبي عقلبك
Albi 3a albak (My heart feels your heart)

This phrase is a deeply affectionate way of saying you’re emotionally in tune with someone else. Whether celebrating a friend's success or comforting them in sadness, “Albi 3a albak” conveys solidarity and shared feelings. It’s not just empathy but a heartfelt alignment, signaling that you’re not just listening but truly connecting with the other person's experience.

When learning Lebanese Arabic, phrases like this help you communicate the language and the warmth of the culture.

4. فرخ البط عوام
Farkh el baTT 3awwaam (The duckling swims)

This phrase reflects how children inherit skills or traits from their parents and is often used when someone follows in a parent’s footsteps. In Lebanese culture, family bonds are highly valued, and by understanding phrases like this, learners gain a sense of cultural connection.

So, if you’re wondering how to learn the Arabic language in a culturally immersive way, join us at 3arabian to begin your journey with our online Arabic language course! Looking for a quick glimpse at Arabic? Check out our online Free Trial class!

5. قرد بعين إمّو غزال
2ird b 3ein emmo ghazal (A monkey in his mother’s eyes is a gazelle)

Highlighting how love makes us see only the best in others, this idiom suggests that no matter what, a loved one is always seen in a positive light. It’s the perfect phrase when someone is proud of a family member.

Learning these cultural nuances is an engaging part of joining our immersive Arabic language courses, allowing you to deepen your understanding of Lebanese affection and humor.

Fun Fact About Arabic Idioms!

Just like the varied climates across Arabic-speaking countries—from the deserts of Saudi Arabia to the Mediterranean coast of Lebanon—Arabic idioms change from one country to another! Each region’s idioms reflect local traditions, values, and even geography, making learning them a journey through the rich diversity of the Arab world.

How can 3arabian help?

At 3arabian, we bring you closer to the Arabic language through a practical, immersive approach that goes beyond vocabulary to embrace culture and tradition. Our One-to-One online classes are designed to make learning Arabic engaging and effective, tailored to your unique journey.

Join us now at 3arabian.com to start your personalized experience, bringing Lebanese idioms and culture to your fingertips. Embrace a deeper understanding of Arabic and make it part of your everyday expression.