Learning how to say “cousins” in Arabic is a great way to enhance your language skills and strengthen your connection with Arabic-speaking friends and family. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “cousins” in Arabic, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cousins
When it comes to formal Arabic, also known as Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), there are a few terms you can use to refer to cousins:
- Ikhwaan al-abnaa: This translates to “brothers of children” and is used to refer to male cousins collectively in a formal context. For example, you could say “I have many cousins” as “I have many ikhwaan al-abnaa.”
- Akhawiyya al-abnaa: This term is similar to the previous one, but it specifies “male cousins.” You can use it in a formal setting when you want to distinguish between male and female cousins. For example, you could say “My male cousins are coming over” as “My akhawiyya al-abnaa are coming over.”
- Akhawaat al-abnaa: This term is used to refer to female cousins collectively in a formal context. For example, you could say “I am very close to my cousins” as “I am very close to my akhawaat al-abnaa.”
- Sabayaat al-abnaa: This term specifies “female cousins” in a formal context. For example, you could say “My female cousins live abroad” as “My sabayaat al-abnaa live abroad.”
Informal Ways to Say Cousins
Informal Arabic, often referred to as colloquial Arabic or dialects, varies across different regions. Here are a few examples of how to say “cousins” in informal Arabic:
Egyptian Arabic:
In Egyptian Arabic, “cousins” can be expressed as “ijlaayik” for male cousins and “ijlaayikat” for female cousins. For example, you could say “I met my cousins today” as “Salemto ‘ala ijlaayik el-yoom.”
Levantine Arabic:
In Levantine Arabic, “cousins” can be referred to as “khayyat” for male cousins and “khayye” for female cousins. For example, you could say “Let’s visit our cousins” as “Heletna nizoor ‘ala khayyatna.”
Gulf Arabic:
In Gulf Arabic, “cousins” can be expressed as “zowja” for male cousins and “oksawat” for female cousins. For example, you could say “Are your cousins here?” as “Hal zowjatuk hon?”
Tips:
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using these terms to say “cousins” in Arabic:
- Remember to adjust the terms based on the number you want to express. Arabic nouns change accordingly when singular or plural.
- Do not hesitate to ask native Arabic speakers about the appropriate term to use in your specific context or region, ensuring accuracy and cultural sensitivity.
- Practice pronunciation using resources such as language learning apps, audio recordings, or conversing with native Arabic speakers to refine your verbal expression.
- Immerse yourself in Arabic culture and build relationships with native speakers to deepen your understanding and fluency in the language.
Learning how to say “cousins” in Arabic allows you to better communicate with Arabic-speaking friends and family while showcasing your appreciation for their culture and language. Embrace the variations and nuances that come with different regional dialects, and enjoy the process of becoming more fluent in Arabic!
