مرحبًا بك
marḥaban bika
The Arabic phrase for 'hello to a man' is مرحبًا بك (marḥaban bika).
This phrase is used to welcome a man. You can also use the single word مرحبًا as a general 'hello' or 'welcome' regardless of gender.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, مرحبًا بك translates to 'Welcome to you'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase مرحبًا بك uses the masculine suffix 'ka' to address a man.
How do you pronounce it?
marḥaban bika
When do people say it?
In some Arab countries, it is common to place your right hand over your heart while greeting someone as a sign of respect.
Did you know?
- The word مرحبًا is derived from the root meaning 'spacious' or 'wide'. By saying it, you are metaphorically telling the man that he has arrived in a 'spacious' place where he is not a burden.
- In some Gulf countries, a man greeting another man might involve a specific type of handshake that lasts longer than in Western cultures. This signifies a deeper bond of hospitality and trust.
- The concept of 'welcome' in Arabic culture is deeply tied to the concept of 'Karam', or generosity. Welcoming a man is not just a polite gesture but an essential part of one's honor and reputation.
Examples in context
- مرحبًا بك في منزلنا.marḥaban bika fī man-zilinā.Welcome to our home.
- مرحبًا بك يا صديقي.marḥaban bika yā ṣadīqī.Welcome, my friend.
- مرحبًا بك في الفريق.marḥaban bika fī al-farīq.Welcome to the team.
Example conversation
Nour welcomes Youssef to her office for the first time.
- نور Nourمرحبًا بك يا يوسف.marḥaban bika yā yūsuf.Welcome, Youssef.
- يوسف Youssefشكرًا لكِ، يا نور.shukran laki, yā nūr.Thank you, Nour.
- نور Nourهل أنت مستعد؟hal anta musta‘id?Are you ready?
- يوسف Youssefنعم، أنا مستعد تمامًا.na‘am, ana musta‘id tamāman.Yes, I am completely ready.
