دير بالك
deer balak
دير بالك (deer balak) is the Arabic way to say "take care" (as an interjection).
This phrase is commonly used as a parting expression similar to "take care" when saying goodbye. However, it can also function as a warning to tell someone to "watch out" or "be careful" in a specific moment.
Meaning: good-bye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase دير بالك literally means "direct your attention" or "direct your mind".
Is it said differently in some regions?
دير بالك is characteristic of Levantine Arabic dialects, which are spoken in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes depending on who you are addressing. To say "take care" to a female, use ديري بالك and to say it to a group of people, use the plural form ديروا بالكم.
How do you pronounce it?
deer balak
Did you know?
- The word دير is borrowed from the Classical Syriac word dayrā, which specifically meant a 'cloister' or 'monastery'.
- Depending on the tone, دير بالك can shift from a warm goodbye to a stern threat, warning the listener to be careful of the speaker's reaction.
- If you use دير بالك in Cairo, a local might assume you have spent significant time living in Lebanon or Syria.
Examples in context
- رحلة سعيدة! اهتم بنفسك.Have a great trip! Take care of yourself.
- دير بالك على نفسك.deer balak 'ala nafsak.Take care of yourself.
- دير بالك وأنت ماشي.deer balak wa enta mashi.Take care while walking.
- دير بالك، الطريق زحمة.deer balak, el tariq zahma.Take care, the road is crowded.
Example conversation
Omar and Nour are saying goodbye after a meeting.
- عمر Omarأنا لازم أروح الآن.ana lazim arooh al-aan.I have to go now.
- نور Nourتمام، بشوفك بكرا.tamam, bashoufek bokra.Okay, I will see you tomorrow.
- عمر Omarمع السلامة، دير بالك!ma'a salama, deer balak!Goodbye, take care!
- نور Nourوأنت كمان، باي.wa anta kaman, bye.You too, bye.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries دير, CC BY-SA 4.0.
