How to Say “How Much” in Darija

Gaining proficiency in a new language opens doors to exciting experiences and opportunities. If you’re learning Moroccan Darija, a commonly spoken dialect in Morocco, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with everyday phrases and expressions. One phrase you’ll frequently encounter is “how much.” In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say “how much” in Darija, providing useful tips, examples, and regional variations along the way.

Formal Ways to Ask “How Much” in Darija

When engaging with someone in a formal setting or addressing someone with higher authority, employing polite language is crucial. To ask “how much” formally in Darija, you can use the following expressions:

1. Bshal?
   This phrase is a simpler yet polite way to ask “how much?” in Darija. It can be effectively used in formal contexts, such as when inquiring about prices in stores or markets.
2. Bshal ghriwri?
   When specifically asking about the price of an item, “ghriwri” (meaning price) can be added to the phrase “bshal?” to make it more formal. For instance, you can use this phrase when bargaining in a traditional Moroccan souk to politely inquire about an item’s cost.

Informal Ways to Ask “How Much” in Darija

Informal conversations often allow for more relaxed and colloquial expressions. Below are some informal ways to ask “how much” in Darija:

• Chkoun maghadi iji f derb?
  This expression translates to “who’s coming to the alley?” and is a common way to ask “how much?” casually. It’s often used when inquiring about the price of an item or service in an informal setting.
• Chkoun kaygoulik f derb?
  Similar to the previous expression, this phrase means “who tells you the price in the alley?” and can be used interchangeably to ask “how much?”

Regional Variations in Darija

As with any dialect, regional variations exist within Darija. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood throughout Morocco, you may encounter some regional differences when it comes to asking “how much.” Here are a few such variations:

Tangier Region

In the Tangier region, it is common to use the Berber influence in Darija. The following phrases are often used to ask “how much” in informal conversations:

• Ir d-tawi?
  This phrase is used to ask “how much?” in the Tangier region. It is worth noting that “ir” is a Berber word that means “how” or “how much.”
• Chkoun kayeshuflik ala hadshi?
  For a more informal tone, this expression means “who will show you the item’s price?” and is frequently used in Tangier and its surrounding areas.

Marrakech Region

In the Marrakech region, the cultural influence of tourists significantly impacts the local dialect. Consequently, you may choose to use more familiar expressions when asking “how much” in this area:

• Koulshi finan?
  Translated as “how much is everything?” or “how much for everything?” this phrase has become common in Marrakech due to its popularity among tourists.
• Wasla fiko?
  A popular colloquial phrase used in Marrakech to inquire about the price of an item is “wasla fiko?” which roughly means “how much does it arrive at for you?”

Tip: While regional variations can be interesting to explore, it’s important to remember that non-local speakers are generally understood and appreciated when using common phrases from urban areas such as Casablanca or Rabat, regardless of the region you are in.

Examples of Using “How Much” in Darija

Let’s have a look at some examples of how to use different variations of “how much” in Darija:

• Example 1:
  Tourist: Bshal ghriwri had l-kilo dial l-bzemel?
  Vendor: Hada bshaluh khamsin dirham ghir.
• Example 2:
  Local: Chkoun kaygoulik f derb l-kahwa diyal l-maghribiyin?
  Waiter: L-kahwa diyalna hia finan, hadshi ghayaghrab bik khmisash d-drouch.

Remember that immersion and practice are key in language acquisition. Don’t hesitate to engage with locals and try out the phrases mentioned above. Moroccans are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it an excellent environment for language learners. Enjoy your language learning journey, and may you find success in your exploration of Moroccan Darija!