لا يقدر بثمن
la yuqaddar bi-thaman
The English word "priceless" is translated into Arabic as لا يقدر بثمن (la yuqaddar bi-thaman).
The phrase is used to describe something so precious that it cannot be valued at any price.
Meaning: so precious as not to be sold at any price (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of la (not), yuqaddar (is estimated/valued) and bi-thaman (with a price).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses a passive verb construction, meaning "it is not valued/estimated" by a price.
How do you pronounce it?
la yuqaddar bi-thaman
Did you know?
- While لا يقدر بثمن describes value, Arabic uses the word غالي for both 'expensive' and 'dear' or 'beloved' when referring to people.
- The root of the verb يقدر (to estimate/value) is also the basis for the Arabic word for 'power' or 'ability', showing a connection between 'valuing' something and 'having the power' to do something.
- The word ثمن for 'price' is used in the Quran to describe the 'price' of a soul or a spiritual ransom, extending the financial term into the metaphysical realm.
Examples in context
- هذا العقد لا يقدر بثمن.hadha al-ʿaqdu la yuqaddaru bi-thaman.This necklace is priceless.
- وقتك مع عائلتك لا يقدر بثمن.waqtuka maʿa ʿailatika la yuqaddaru bi-thaman.Your time with your family is priceless.
