نَاعِم
nāʕim
The English word soft can be translated into Arabic using several forms. If unsure, use نَاعِم (nāʕim). Wiktionary also lists لَيِّن (layyin).
Meaning: easily giving way under pressure (adj)
Ways to say it
| Arabic | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| نَاعِم | nāʕim |
| لَيِّن | layyin |
The adjective describes something that easily gives way under pressure.
Which one should you use?
The choice between forms depends on the type of softness: نَاعِم is used for softness related to a smooth or silky texture, such as skin or fabric, while لَيِّن is used for softness related to flexibility or being easily bent or shaped, such as a branch or a material.
How do you pronounce it?
nāʕim
Did you know?
- When describing a 'soft' heart, Arabic uses the word رقيق, which literally means 'thin'. To have a thin heart is to be compassionate and deeply moved by others.
- Arabic has a specific linguistic relationship where the word for 'soft' نَاعِم can also mean 'refined' or 'luxurious' when describing a lifestyle.
- The word لَيِّن can be used to describe the 'softness' of a legal or religious ruling that is flexible and easy to follow rather than strict.
Examples in context
- ثوب ليّنSoft fabric
- أريد وسادة نَاعِمَة.uridu wisada na'ima.I want a soft pillow.
Example conversation
Ziyad and Maryam are shopping for towels.
- زياد Ziadانظُري يا مريم، هذه المِنْشَفَة نَاعِمَة.Unzhuri ya Maryam, hadhihi al-minshafa na'ima.Look Maryam, this towel is soft.
- مريم Maryamنَعَم، إنَّها مَلمَسُها رائع.Na'am, innaha malmasuha ra'i'.Yes, it feels wonderful.
- زياد Ziadهَل نَشْتَري واحدةً لِلمنزل؟Hal nashtari wahidatan lil-manzil?Shall we buy one for the house?
- مريم Maryamفِكْرَة جَيِّدَة يا زياد.Fikra jayyida ya Ziyad.Good idea, Ziyad.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “soft” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
