أنت كلب
anta kalb
The phrase "you're a dog" in Arabic is أنت كلب (anta kalb).
In many Arabic-speaking cultures, calling someone a dog is a severe insult implying low character or lack of loyalty.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of أنت (you, masculine singular) and كلب (dog).
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form أنت كلب is grammatically masculine and is used when addressing a male. To say "you are a dog" to a female, use the feminine form أنتِ كلبة (anti kalba).
How do you pronounce it?
anta kalb
Did you know?
- In many Arabic-speaking societies, the insult أنت كلب is considered even more offensive than calling someone a 'pig' because dogs were traditionally viewed as ritually impure.
- In some Arabic dialects, calling someone a 'dog' can shift from a severe insult to a term of endearment or a compliment for someone's tenacity, depending entirely on the tone and relationship.
- Despite the insult, the 'dog' is one of the few animals mentioned explicitly in the Quran, specifically in a story about a dog that accompanied the People of the Cave.
Examples in context
- أنت كلب.Anta kalb.You're a dog.
Example conversation
Two friends are joking around during a game.
- عمر Omarلقد خسرت مجدداً، أنت كلب!Laqad khasirta mujaddadan, anta kalb!You lost again, you're a dog!
- مريم Maryamتوقف عن السخرية مني يا عمر.Tawaqqaf 'an as-sukhriyya minni ya Omar.Stop making fun of me, Omar.
- عمر Omarأنا فقط أمزح معك.Ana faqat amzah ma'aka.I'm just joking with you.
- مريم Maryamحسناً، سأهزمك في المرة القادمة.Hasanan, sa-ahzimuka fi al-marra al-qadima.Fine, I will beat you next time.
