غير منتظم
ghayr muntazam
The English word "patchy" is translated into Arabic as غير منتظم (ghayr muntazam).
The term غير منتظم is used to describe things that lack consistency or continuity. This includes describing things like patchy sunlight, irregular patterns or non-continuous service.
Meaning: Not constant or continuous (adj)
Which one should you use?
While غير منتظم is the standard term, the formal term المتفاوت can also be used to express the concept of being patchy, specifically emphasizing variation or discrepancy between parts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form غير منتظم is masculine.
How do you pronounce it?
ghayr muntazam
Did you know?
- The word غير used to create the meaning 'not' or 'irregular' is historically linked to the Arabic verb for 'being jealous' or 'displaying zeal'.
- Because of its connection to the root meaning 'to string pearls', the word منتظم is the same word used to describe the structure of poetry. A poem is seen as an ordered arrangement of words, much like a necklace.
- In Arabic, the concept of 'irregularity' expressed by غير منتظم can be used to describe a heartbeat or a pulse, blending medical terminology with everyday description.
Examples in context
- التطور الاقتصادي متفاوت في المنطقةThe economic development is patchy in the region.
- كان نمو الشعر غير منتظم.Kana numu al-sha'r ghayr muntazim.The hair growth was patchy.
Example conversation
Nour and Omar are trying to make a video call.
- نور Nourهل تسمعني يا عمر؟Hal tasma'uni ya Omar?Can you hear me, Omar?
- عمر Omarنعم، لكن الصوت غير منتظم.Na'am, lakin al-sawt ghayr muntazim.Yes, but the audio is patchy.
- نور Nourربما بسبب إشارة الواي فاي.Rubbama bisabab isharat al-wifi.Maybe it is because of the Wi-Fi signal.
- عمر Omarسأحاول إعادة تشغيل الجهاز.Sa-uhawil i'adat tashghil al-jihaz.I will try restarting the device.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries غير, منتظم, CC BY-SA 4.0.
