When learning a new language, knowing how to address family members is an essential skill. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “brothers” and “sisters” in Arabic. While this guide primarily focuses on Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), we will also touch upon a few regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say Brothers and Sisters in Arabic
In formal contexts, such as when speaking to older people, strangers, or in professional settings, it is common to use the following terms:
Akh (اخ) – Brother
Ukht (أخت) – Sister
These terms are commonly used regardless of the number of siblings or their gender. When addressing multiple brothers or sisters, you can use the plural forms:
Ikhwan (إخوان) – Brothers
Ukhtan (أختان) – Sisters
Tips:
- Remember to use the correct vowel sounds when pronouncing these words. For example, the “kh” sound in “akh” is similar to the “ch” sound in “loch.”
- To show respect, it is common to add the title “Sayyid” (سيد) before these words when referring to someone else’s sibling. For example, “Sayyid Akh” means “Mr. Brother.”
Examples:
- أين أختُكَ؟ (Ayna ukhtuka?) – Where is your sister?
- يذهب الأخوان إلى المدرسة. (Yathhabu al-ikhwan ila al-madrasah.) – The brothers are going to school.
- سألقي تحيةً لأختك الكبيرة. (Sa’liqī tahīatan li-ukhtika al-kabirah.) – I will say hi to your older sister.
2. Informal Ways to Say Brothers and Sisters in Arabic
In informal settings, such as when speaking to friends or family members, there are alternative terms used:
Aki (أخي) – Brother (informal)
Ukhti (أختي) – Sister (informal)
These terms reflect a more intimate and friendly tone of speech. Similarly, you can use the plural forms for addressing multiple siblings:
Akhawati (أخواتي) – Sisters (informal)
Ikhwan (إخوان) – Brothers (informal)
Tips:
- Be aware that using informal terms with strangers or older individuals can be seen as disrespectful.
- To add more warmth, you can use terms like “habibi” (my dear) or “yaa” (oh) before addressing your brother or sister, such as “Yaa aki” (Oh, my brother) or “Habibti ukhti” (My dear sister).
Examples:
- أنت أخي المفضل. (Anta akī al-mufaḍḍal.) – You are my favorite brother.
- لقد أوقفت أختي عن البكاء. (Laqad awqafat ukhti ‘an al-bukāʼ.) – I made my sister stop crying.
- يا أخي، هل تستطيع مساعدتي؟ (Ya aki, hal tastatee’ musa’adati?) – Oh, brother, can you help me?
Summary
Learning how to say “brothers” and “sisters” is important when communicating in Arabic. In formal settings, you can use “akh” and “ukht,” while in informal situations, “aki” and “ukhti” are more appropriate. Remember to adjust your tone based on the context and the relationship with the person you are addressing. Adding terms of endearment can also enhance the warmth in your conversation.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you will soon become comfortable using these terms in Arabic. Expand your knowledge by exploring regional variations, where dialects differ from MSA.
Practice these phrases with native Arabic speakers, and they will appreciate your effort in connecting with their language and culture.
