شكو ماكو
shaku maku
The English phrase "wsp" can be translated into Arabic as شكو ماكو (shaku maku).
شكو ماكو is an informal greeting used to ask someone what is happening, what is new or to request updates about a specific situation. It serves both as a way to initiate a conversation and as a way to ask for news.
Is it said differently in some regions?
شكو ماكو is a characteristic greeting used primarily in Iraqi, Kuwaiti and Gulf Arabic dialects.
How do you pronounce it?
shaku maku
Did you know?
- The phrase شكو ماكو is essentially a rhythmic way of asking 'what is there and what is not there'.
- The phrase is so iconic to Iraqi identity that it is often used in branding, art and street graffiti throughout Baghdad as a symbol of local culture.
- In some Iraqi contexts, the phrase is used rhetorically to express skepticism, similar to saying 'What is really going on here?' during a suspicious situation.
Examples in context
- شكو ماكو يا صديقي؟shaku maku ya sadiqi?What's up, my friend?
- شكو ماكو بالدنيا؟shaku maku bil dunya?What is happening in the world?
- شكو ماكو اليوم؟shaku maku al-yawm?What's new today?
Example conversation
Two friends meeting at a cafe.
- يوسف Youssefهلا سارة، شكو ماكو؟hala Sarah, shaku maku?Hey Sarah, what's up?
- سارة Saraماكو شي جديد، وأنت؟maku shi jadid, wa anta?Nothing new, and you?
- يوسف Youssefكل شي تمام، بس تعبان شوية.kull shi tamam, bas ta'ban shwayya.Everything is fine, just a bit tired.
- سارة Saraسلامتك، إن شاء الله خير.salamtak, in sha' Allah khair.Get well soon, hopefully everything is okay.
