Useful Phrases

1. أنا من اليابان

   ana men l-yābān

   I am from Japan

   Usage

   For introductions; in Darija people usually say where they are from rather than "I am Japanese".

   Grammar Note

   No verb "to be" is needed; "men" plus a country gives your origin. Composed from dictionary-verified words by regular grammar.

2. أنا مسافر بوحدي

   ana msāfer bwaḥdī

   I am traveling alone

   Usage

   Said by a man; a woman says "msāfra".

   Grammar Note

   "bwaḥdī" means by myself; "msāfer" is masculine, feminine is "msāfra". Composed from dictionary-verified words by regular grammar.

3. هادي أول مرة كانجي لهنا

   hādi awwal marra kānji l-hnā

   It is my first time here

   Usage

   At a new town or shop, as a conversation opener.

   Grammar Note

   "marra" is feminine so "hādi" is used; "kā-" plus a verb marks the present.

4. واش نقدر ناخد تصويرة؟

   wāsh nqder nākhod tṣwīra?

   May I take a photo?

   Usage

   Ask before photographing people, stalls or shops; always get permission for portraits.

   Grammar Note

   "nākhod tṣwīra" is to take a photo; "nqder" plus a verb means can. Composed from dictionary-verified words by regular grammar.

5. واش ناخدو تصويرة بجوج؟

   wāsh nākhdu tṣwīra bjūj?

   Shall we take a photo together?

   Usage

   To someone you have chatted with, or a shopkeeper.

   Grammar Note

   "b-" plus a number means "the two of us"; "bjūj" is both together. Composed from dictionary-verified words by regular grammar.

6. ماتغشّنيش

   mā tghushshni-sh

   Don't cheat me

   Usage

   A firm line when overcharged; it sounds sharp, so say it with a smile or pick your moment.

   Grammar Note

   "mā…sh" negates the command; "ghushsh" is to cheat and "-ni" is me. Composed from dictionary-verified words by regular grammar.

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