Prepare to be amused as we dive into the world of Lebanese idioms that, when taken literally, transform into a comical medley of words and meanings.
Get ready for a journey of laughter as we explore these uproarious Lebanese idioms in their raw, unfiltered state.
Ma fe shi warana
Translates to: “There’s nothing behind us.”
This is typically used when people are hanging out together and it’s starting to get late. They would say “Ma fe shi warana,” to imply that they don’t have anything to do so they can stay longer.
Ensa el bansa
Translates to: “Forget the pliers.”
The literal meaning is “forget it, it’s not happening.”
Shu fee, ma fee
Translates to: “What’s going on, not going on.”
This expression could be used as: “What’s going on,” or “How’s everything?”
3omrak ma terja3
Translates to: “For your entire age, don’t come back.”
This is used to express hate towards another person as in saying: “I hate you so much and I don’t care if I ever see you again.”
To2borny
Translates to: “Bury me.”
Opposite to “3omrak ma terja3,” this expression is used to show love and affection as in saying: “My affection for you is so profound that I would prefer you to lay me to rest instead of witnessing your passing.”
Roo7 ballet el ba7er
Translates to: “Go tile the ocean.”
This is used to imply the following: “Your likelihood of tiling the entire ocean is greater than your chances of convincing me. It’s in your best interest to cease your attempts.”
3ayesh bl khasse
Translates to: “You are living in a lettuce.”
You can say this to your friend who is unaware of his state or surrounding in a humourous manner: “You exist in an alternate world and are completely unaware of the current situation.”
Le Bitdal Baseltak Ma7roo2a
Translates to: “Why is your onion always burned.”
Try saying this to a friend or a family member who is always nagging or waiting on pins and needles for something he really wants. Basically, it’s like saying: “Why can’t you wait, you need to be patient.”
El Ered B3ein Emmo Ghazal
Translates to: “The Monkey is a Gazelle in its mom’s eyes.”
This means that even if you are the ugliest person on the planet, you’ll always be pretty in your mom’s eyes.
Min 3yooni
Translates to: “From my eyes.”
Use this to respond to someone who asked you for something or service. This shows how it’s your pleasure to do the job or help.
Lebanese idioms are a testament to the colorful and creative nature of language. While they might not make much sense when translated literally, they’re a source of endless amusement and a wonderful insight into the cultural richness of Lebanon.
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