Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “still” in Arabic. Whether you are a beginner learning Arabic or an advanced learner looking to enhance your vocabulary, this guide will provide you with a detailed insight into different ways to express “still” in both formal and informal contexts. Arabic is a rich language with various regional variations, and we will explore those as necessary. So, let’s begin!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Still” in Arabic:
Formal Arabic, also known as Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), is widely used in written communication, formal speeches, news broadcasts, and official settings. Here are several formal expressions of “still” in Arabic:
i. لا يزال (la yazaal):
One of the most common ways to say “still” in a formal context is by using the phrase “لا يزال” (la yazaal). It emphasizes the continuity or duration of a particular state or action.
Usage example:
هو لا يزال يقرأ الكتاب. (Huwa la yazaal yaqra’u al-kitab.)
Translation: He is still reading the book.
ii. ما زال (ma zaal):
Another formal expression for “still” is “ما زال” (ma zaal), which serves a similar purpose as “لا يزال” (la yazaal), but with a slight difference in usage.
Usage example:
العمالة ما زالت تزداد في المدينة. (Al-ʿamala ma zaalat tazdad fi al-madinah.)
Translation: The population is still increasing in the city.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Still” in Arabic:
Informal Arabic, also known as Colloquial Arabic, varies significantly across different regions. The following are a few informal expressions of “still” that are commonly used in spoken Arabic:
i. بعد (baʿd):
The word “بعد” (baʿd) has multiple meanings in Arabic, and one of its usages is to indicate “still” in a casual conversation.
Usage example:
ما تزال تحضر الفصل اليوم؟ بعد تحضر. (Ma tazal tuhadir al-fasl alyawm? Baʿd tuhadir.)
Translation: Are you still attending the class today? Yes, I am still attending.
ii. لسَّه (lessa):
In some regions, particularly in the Levant, “لسَّه” (lessa) is commonly used to mean “still” in informal conversations.
Usage example:
أنا لسَّه مش مستعد. (Ana lessa mish mostaʿed.)
Translation: I am still not ready.
3. Regional Variations:
As mentioned earlier, Arabic shows regional variations in vocabulary and pronunciation. It is important to note that the informal expressions mentioned above may not apply universally. However, they give you an idea of commonly used alternatives for “still” across different regions.
i. Gulf Dialect:
In the Gulf region, the term “ما زال” (ma zaal) is still favored in informal conversations.
ii. Egyptian Dialect:
In Egypt, “لاسَّه” (lassah) is a widely used term meaning “still” in informal contexts.
iii. Maghrebi Dialect:
In the Maghreb region, such as Morocco or Algeria, the term “كيف قلبك؟” (kif qalbak?) is often used to mean “are you still okay?” or “how are you doing?”
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You have now learned various ways to express the concept of “still” in Arabic. From formal phrases like “لا يزال” (la yazaal) and “ما زال” (ma zaal) to informal expressions like “بعد” (baʿd) and “لسَّه” (lessa), you have expanded your Arabic vocabulary. Remember that regional variations in vocabulary and usage exist, so familiarize yourself with commonly used terms if you plan to communicate with native speakers from specific regions. Practice using these expressions in conversations to reinforce your language skills. Happy learning!
