مهارات ناعمة
maharat na'ima
In Arabic, soft skills is expressed as مهارات ناعمة (maharat na'ima).
The phrase مهارات ناعمة is a direct calque of the English term 'soft skills' used in professional and educational contexts in the Arab world to describe personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of مهارات (skills) and ناعمة (soft/smooth).
Which one should you use?
While مهارات ناعمة is the direct translation, you may encounter المهارات الناعمة in formal contexts. Alternatively, you can use المهارات الشخصية, which translates to 'personal skills', as an interchangeable term in formal settings.
How do you pronounce it?
maharat na'ima
Did you know?
- The word مهارات (skills) is derived from a root meaning 'to be skilled in riding a horse'. This connects modern professional 'skills' to ancient nomadic traditions of mastery and agility.
- Arabic has a rich tradition of 'Adab' (etiquette), a concept that encompasses many 'soft skills' but focuses on moral refinement and literary culture rather than just workplace efficiency.
- In many Arabic dialects, describing a person as ناعم (soft) can sometimes imply they are pampered or lack toughness, which contrasts with the positive professional connotation of مهارات ناعمة.
Examples in context
- في سوق العمل الحديث، تكون المهارات الناعمة مهمة جداً لتحقيق النجاح المهني.In the modern job market, soft skills are highly important for achieving professional success.
- بالإضافة إلى المعرفة التقنية، المهارات الشخصية مهمة للعمل الجماعي والتواصل الفعال.In addition to technical knowledge, personal skills are important for teamwork and effective communication.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a job application.
- عمر Omarيا ليلى، ما الذي يطلبه هذا المنصب؟Ya Layla, ma alladhi yatlubuhu hadha al-mansib?Layla, what does this position require?
- ليلى Laylaيطلبون خبرة تقنية وبعض مهارات ناعمة أيضاً.Yatlubuna khibra tiqniyya wa ba'da maharat na'ima aydan.They are asking for technical experience and some soft skills as well.
- عمر Omarهل تعتقدين أنني أملكها يا ليلى؟Hal ta'taqidina annani amlikuha ya Layla?Do you think I have them, Layla?
- ليلى Laylaنعم يا عمر، أنت بارع في التواصل.Na'am ya Omar, anta bari' fit-tawasul.Yes Omar, you are great at communication.
