If you grew up in an Arab household, you already speak a second language: Mama. It sounds like Arabic (or English with a very specific accent), but every phrase has a hidden meaning. Here's the official translation guide, compiled by people who have heard all of these at least a thousand times.
1. "Akalt?" (Did you eat?)
What it means: I love you. Also, I'm going to make you a plate whatever you answer. "I already ate" is not an accepted answer.
2. "Inshallah" (God willing)
What it means: Depends on the tone. Sometimes it's a real yes. Usually, when you ask to go to a sleepover, it's a polite no that lets everyone keep their dignity.
3. "Bukra" (Tomorrow)
What it means: At some undefined point in the future. Possibly never. Do not plan your week around it.
4. "Khamas da'ayi'" (Five minutes)
What it means: Anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours. Applies to getting ready, leaving a party and "I'm almost there." See also: Running on Arab Time.
5. "Mnshoof" (We'll see)
What it means: No. A very confident no.
6. "Is'al abook" (Ask your father)
What it means: She already knows he'll say no. This is a delay tactic.
7. "Lbis jacket, fi bard" (Wear a jacket, it's cold)
What it means: It is 68 degrees outside. You're wearing the jacket anyway.
8. "Wallah"
What it means: I swear. Used to make anything sound official, from "Wallah I'm not mad" (she's mad) to "Wallah this is the last time" (it isn't).
9. "Khalas!"
What it means: Enough. Done. The conversation is over. There is no appeals process.
10. "Ma3lesh"
What it means: It's okay, never mind. The most comforting word in Arabic, used for everything from a scraped knee to a burnt batch of rice.
11. "Ya albi" (My heart)
What it means: The highest form of affection. Also used right before asking you to do the dishes.
12. "Lamma tsiri um, bta3rfi" (When you're a mom, you'll understand)
What it means: The argument is over and she won.
Wear the translation
We put the best of these on clothes, so you can quote your mom without saying a word:
- The Arab Parent Translation Guide Tee: Inshallah, Bukra, Five Minutes and more, translated.
- The Arab Mom Hotline Tee: press 1 for "Did you eat?"
- Mama's Shibsheb Undefeated Tee: range, any room in the house. Accuracy, 100%.
Shopping for her? Browse everything in our For Mama collection, or check the gift guide for Mother's Day, Eid and birthdays.
Spellings vary by country and family. If your mom says it differently, she's right. Obviously.