كبير
kibīr/ka.biːr/Egyptian Arabic
The English word "big" is translated into Arabic as كبير (kibīr). Wiktionary also lists كَبِير (kabīr).
Meaning: of a great size (adj)
Ways to say it
| Arabic | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| كبير | kibīr | /ka.biːr/ /kbiːr/ |
Egyptian Arabic |
| كَبِير | kabīr |
The word كبير is used to describe something of a great size. Beyond physical dimensions, it can also be used metaphorically to mean "great" or "important".
How does it change in a sentence?
When you are describing non-human plurals, you should use the singular feminine form كبيرة. If you are referring to a group of people, such as "important people" or "elders", use the broken plural form كبار.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ka.biːr/ (kibīr). It has 2 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word كبير can also function as a noun in certain contexts to mean 'the boss' or 'the leader' of a group. This transforms a simple adjective into a title of authority.
- The phrase كبار الشخصيات is used to mean 'VIP', which literally translates to 'big personalities' in English.
- In many Arabic dialects, كبير can be used as a compliment for someone who is 'great' or 'classy' in their behavior. It describes a person with a 'big' heart or a noble character.
Examples in context
- يا له من كلب كبير!What a big dog!This sentence uses كبير to express exclamation about a big dog.Tatoeba #376305 by saeb, translation #528258 by fanty
- يا له من كلب كبير.What a big dog it is!This sentence uses كبير to describe a big dog.Tatoeba #392697 by saeb, translation #36070 by AlanF_US
- لدى ياني كنبة كبيرة.Yanni has a big couch.This sentence uses كبير to describe a big couch.Tatoeba #11250121 by Amghar, translation #10107863 by Amastan
- الكتاب الكبيرThe big book
- ناطحة سحاب ضخمةA massive skyscraper
- يا لها من طائرة كبيرة!What a big airplane!
- 76 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Leila and Ziad are looking at a house.
- ليلى Laylaالبيت ده كبير أوي يا زياد.El beit da kebeer awy ya Ziad.This house is very big, Ziad.
- زياد Ziadفعلاً، ومساحته ممتازة.Fe'lan, we masahto momtaza.Indeed, and its area is excellent.
- ليلى Laylaعايزة أجيب عفش كبير هنا.Ayza ageeb 'afsh kebeer hena.I want to bring big furniture here.
- زياد Ziadتمام، هيكون شكله حلو.Tamam, haykon shaklo helw.Okay, it will look nice.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “big” translations and entries كبير, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
