حياء
hayaa'
The English word 'modesty' is translated into Arabic as حياء (hayaa').
The term حياء encompasses the concept of modesty and shyness and is used in formal settings.
Meaning: quality of being modest (noun)
Which one should you use?
While حياء refers to modesty and shyness, the word تواضع signifies humility, modesty and a lack of arrogance.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Morocco, the term تواضع is often used to describe both formal and informal modesty.
How does it change in a sentence?
While حياء is the noun for modesty, the adjective used to describe a person as modest or shy is خجول.
How do you pronounce it?
hayaa'
Did you know?
- The word حياء shares the same linguistic root as the word for 'life', حياة. In Arabic thought, this implies that modesty is not just a social rule but a sign of spiritual and moral vitality.
- The term حياء can be used to describe the 'modesty' of nature, such as the way certain plants droop or hide their flowers, reflecting a poetic application of the word beyond human behavior.
- If you call someone خجول to mean they are 'modest', you might actually be insulting them by suggesting they are merely 'timid' or 'socially awkward'.
Examples in context
- أحب حياءها في التعامل مع الناس.uhibbu haya'aha fi al-ta'amul ma'a al-nas.I love her modesty in dealing with people.
Example conversation
Ahmed and Layla are discussing a friend's polite behavior.
- أحمد Ahmedلاحظت أن سارة تتحدث بـ حياء شديد.Lahaztu anna Sarah tatahaddathu bi-haya'in shadid.I noticed that Sarah speaks with great modesty.
- ليلى Laylaنعم، هي خجولة ومؤدبة دائماً.Na'am, hiya khajula wa mu'addaba da'iman.Yes, she is always shy and polite.
- أحمد Ahmedهذا الحياء يجعلها محبوبة عند الجميع.Hadha al-haya'u yaj'aluha mahbubatan 'inda al-jami'.This modesty makes her loved by everyone.
- ليلى Laylaأنا أتفق معك تماماً يا أحمد.Ana attafiqu ma'aka tamaman ya Ahmad.I completely agree with you, Ahmed.
