When learning a new language, it’s essential to grasp the basic vocabulary to effectively communicate. One of the fundamental words you’ll need to know in Arabic is “afternoon.” In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to say “afternoon” in Arabic, focusing on Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) which is understood by most native Arabic speakers. We will also touch on a few regional variations if they significantly differ from the MSA usage. Let’s get started!
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Formal Ways of Saying Afternoon in Arabic
When you want to express “afternoon” in a more formal context, you can use the word “عصر” (pronounced: ‘asr). This term corresponds to the time from midday until sunset.
Examples:
- صباح الصُّبح حتى العصر (ṣabāḥ al-ṣabḥ ḥattá al-‘aṣr) – From morning until afternoon
- كيف حالك هذا العصر؟ (Kayf ḥālak haḏā al-‘aṣr?) – How are you this afternoon?
- بعد العصر (ba’d al-‘aṣr) – Afternoon
Informal Ways of Saying Afternoon in Arabic
In informal contexts, native Arabic speakers often use the word “مساء” (pronounced: masā’) to refer to the afternoon. However, it’s important to note that “مساء” primarily means “evening” in MSA, but it is also commonly used to denote the later part of the day.
Examples:
- مساء الخير! كيف يمكنني مساعدتك اليوم؟ (Masā’ al-khayr! Kayf yumkinunī musā’adatuk al-yawm?) – Good afternoon! How can I help you today?
- مساء النّور! (Masā’ an-nūr!) – Good afternoon! (A more colloquial greeting)
- كيفك هالمساء؟ (Kayfak ha-lmasā’?) – How are you this afternoon?
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal terms described above are widely used in most Arabic-speaking countries, it’s worth mentioning a few regional variations that exist:
1. Egypt:
In Egypt, the colloquial term “ديرو صنية” (pronounced: diro sanya) is often used to wish someone a good afternoon or to refer to the afternoon itself. This term is particularly popular in Egyptian Arabic.
2. Gulf Countries:
In the Gulf countries, specifically in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, the word “صباح الفل” (pronounced: ṣabāḥ al-fl) is occasionally used to greet others in the afternoon. It literally translates to “morning of jasmine” and is an endearing way to refer to the afternoon hours.
Remember, if you’re unsure which term to use, it’s always best to follow the lead of the locals and adapt to their preferred greeting.
Summary
In summary, we have covered both formal and informal ways to say “afternoon” in Arabic. In formal contexts, “عصر” (pronounced: ‘asr) is commonly used, while in informal contexts, “مساء” (pronounced: masā’) can be used but primarily means “evening” in MSA. Regional variations such as “ديرو صنية” (diro sanya) in Egypt and “صباح الفل” (ṣabāḥ al-fl) in Gulf countries offer interesting local insights. Remember to adapt your greetings based on the local customs wherever you find yourself. Practice these phrases, and you’ll soon become comfortable using Arabic to greet others in the afternoon!
