10 Funny Arabic Expressions That Don’t Translate
Arabic is a language filled with color, culture, and creativity. It’s no wonder that some expressions, when translated, leave non-Arabic speakers scratching their heads or laughing out loud. Here are 10 funny Arabic expressions that might not make sense literally, but their charm and humor are irresistible.
1. The Ant Milker
7alleb/7allaab el-namle
حلّاب النملة
This idiom describes someone who is very cheap or overly frugal. It originates from Syria but is also commonly heard in Lebanon. The idea is that this person is so miserly, they would even try to milk an ant.
Where it’s used: Lebanon and Syria.
2. Flying from Happiness
Yateer men el-fara7
يطير من الفرح
This phrase illustrates extreme joy in a comical, exaggerated way. Imagine someone so happy they defy gravity—it sounds amusing and delightful!
Where it’s used: Widely across Arabic-speaking countries.
3. The World is Flipped
El-dunia maqluba
الدنيا مقلوبة
Often used in chaotic or dramatic situations, this expression humorously points out when things are completely out of order—as if someone flipped the Earth like a pancake.
Where it’s used: Jordan and Palestine.
4. His Mind is on Vacation
3aqlo fi ijaaza
عقله في إجازة
Perfect for those moments when someone isn’t paying attention or seems utterly absent-minded. It’s like their brain took a trip without informing them.
Where it’s used: Gulf countries.
5. Come upstairs and have some figs… Go back down! Who told you to do that (come up)?!
Tla3 takol lkarmous, nzel shkoun galha lik
طلع تاكول الكرموس، نزل شكون قالها ليك؟
This idiom is used figuratively when two opposite facts or views coexist, leaving someone unsure which one to believe or agree with. It highlights confusion in a humorous way.
Where it’s used: Morocco.
6. Like the Saw, It Eats Up and Down
Mitel el-minshaar, byekol 3al tali3 wil nezil
مثل المنشار، بيأكل عالطالع والنازل
This idiom describes someone who eats a lot, just like a saw that cuts wood in both directions, up and down. It reflects a person who eats constantly and without restraint.
Where it’s used: Lebanon and other Arabic-speaking countries.
7. Spoiling Produces Idiots
Iddlel y5allif el-hbel
الدّلال يخلّف الهبال
This Tunisian phrase humorously points out that spoiling someone too much often leads to negative consequences. It’s a cultural way of discouraging excessive pampering.
Where it’s used: Tunisia.
8. His Hair Is Made of Dough
Sha3ro min 3ajeen
شعره من عجين
Describes someone who’s soft-hearted or overly sensitive. The idea of doughy hair adds a whimsical touch to this expression.
Where it’s used: Lebanon.
9. Sleeping with His Feet in the Sun
Nayem w rijleh bel shams
نايم ورجليه بالشمس
Refers to someone so relaxed and carefree that they don’t worry about what’s happening in the world around them. Often used humorously to describe someone being lazy.
Where it’s used: Iraq.
10. He Who Eats Alone Chokes
Elly byakol la wa7do byekhtoneq
اللي بياكل لوحده بيخنق
A lighthearted expression that promotes the value of sharing food with others. It’s a common reminder of the joy of communal eating and the social nature of meals in Arabic culture.
Where it’s used: Widely across Arabic-speaking countries.
Why Learn These Expressions?
Expressions like these aren’t just about words; they offer a window into the culture and humor of Arabic-speaking communities. Learning these phrases helps you connect more deeply with native speakers and adds a layer of fun to your Arabic journey.
Whether you are learning with an online Arabic tutor or exploring the language through a trial Arabic language course, diving into idioms like these can make the process more engaging. And while these expressions might not translate directly, their charm speaks a universal language of laughter.
Try Them Out!
These idioms are a great start if you want to incorporate humor into your language learning. Next time you chat with a friend or practice with a teacher, try dropping one of these funny expressions into the conversation. Who knows? You might make someone’s day brighter!
At 3arabian, we believe learning Arabic should be as delightful as it is enriching. That’s why we offer personalized, One-to-One courses tailored to your goals. Ready to explore more? Sign up for a Free Trial Class today and discover how to learn Arabic fast—with a side of humor!
