What does it mean word for word?
أطيب التمنيات is composed of atyab, meaning "best" or "kindest" and at-tamanniyat, meaning "the wishes". The word atyab is the superlative form of the adjective tayyib (good/pleasant), and at-tamanniyat is the plural form of tamanni (wish/desire).
Which one should you use?
While أطيب التمنيات is a standard way to say "best wishes", you may also encounter أطيب الأماني, which also means "best wishes". Additionally, كل التوفيق can be used to mean "all the best" or "good luck" and بالتوفيق is used specifically to reflect a wish for someone to have success or achieve a desired outcome.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
أطيب التمنيات is appropriate for formal correspondence, such as the closing of a professional email or a letter. The form أطيب الأماني is also used in formal situations.
How do you pronounce it?
atyab at-tamanniyat
Did you know?
- When wishing someone 'good luck' using بالتوفيق, it is common to respond with أجمعين, which means 'for all of us' to share the blessing.
- In many Arabic-speaking cultures, instead of just 'best wishes', people often offer 'du'a' (supplications) which are much more religious in nature.
- In some Arabic dialects, the word tayyib is used as a filler word similar to 'okay' or 'alright' to transition between topics in a conversation.
Examples in context
- On this special occasion, I would like to extend my الأماني الطيبة (Al-amani al-tayyibah) to you and your family.On this special occasion, I would like to extend my best wishes to you and your family.
- أرسل لك أطيب التمنيات.arsilu laka atyabu al-tamanniyat.I send you my best wishes.
- تقبل أطيب التمنيات بالنجاح.taqabbal atyaba al-tamanniyat bi-al-najah.Please accept my best wishes for success.
- أطيب التمنيات لك في عملك الجديد.atyabu al-tamanniyat laka fi 'amalika al-jadid.Best wishes to you in your new job.
Example conversation
Layla is writing a farewell email to Omar, who is moving to a new city.
- ليلى Laylaسأفتقدك كثيرا يا عمر.sa-aftaqiduka kathiran ya Omar.I will miss you a lot, Omar.
- عمر Omarشكراً لكِ يا ليلى.shukran laki ya Layla.Thank you, Layla.
- ليلى Laylaأطيب التمنيات لك في حياتك الجديدة.atyabu al-tamanniyat laka fi hayatik al-jadida.Best wishes to you in your new life.
- عمر Omarشكراً جزيلاً على لطفكِ.shukran jazilan 'ala lutfiki.Thank you very much for your kindness.
