At the A1 level, the word 'dākin' is introduced primarily as a way to expand your color vocabulary. You already know 'azraq' (blue) and 'ahmar' (red). By adding 'dākin,' you can now describe shades. At this stage, don't worry too much about the '-an' ending (tanwin fatha) unless you are using it with 'ṣāra' (became). Focus on the basic meaning: 'dark.' You will see it in simple sentences like 'The shirt is dark' or 'I like dark green.' It helps you be more specific in your descriptions, which is a key milestone in early language learning. Think of it as a 'modifier' that you stick onto the end of your color words. It's a very useful word for shopping and describing things around the house. You might also hear it when people talk about their hair or eyes. It's one of those 'building block' words that makes your basic Arabic sound much more descriptive and less like a list of simple nouns. Always remember: Color first, then 'dākin'.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'dākin' in more varied grammatical structures. You'll start noticing the difference between 'dākin' (nominative) and 'dākinan' (accusative). You might use it to describe the weather, such as 'The sky was dark' (كانت السماء داكنة). You are also expected to match the gender of the adjective to the noun (e.g., 'sayyara dākina' for a feminine car). This level is about moving from single words to short, descriptive phrases. You might describe a person's appearance in a basic story or talk about your favorite types of chocolate (shukūlāta dākina). You'll also learn the antonym 'fātih' (light/bright). Being able to contrast 'dākin' and 'fātih' is a classic A2 skill. It shows you can handle opposites and provide more nuanced information in a conversation. You might also encounter it in simple signs or product labels in an Arabic-speaking country.
By B1, you should be comfortable using 'dākin' to describe not just physical objects, but also atmospheres and moods. You will use the accusative form 'dākinan' correctly after 'sisters of Kana' and other verbs. You'll start to understand the stylistic difference between 'dākin' and the more colloquial 'ghāmiq.' At this level, you might write a short paragraph describing a scene—perhaps a stormy day or a formal event—where 'dākin' helps set the tone. You'll also learn more complex collocations, like 'khashab dākin' (dark wood) in the context of interior design. You are expected to use the word with better flow and within more complex sentence structures, like 'Although the room was dark (dākina), I could see the door.' This level focuses on the transition from 'functional' Arabic to 'descriptive' Arabic, and 'dākin' is a key tool in that transition. You might also begin to see it in news headlines or short stories.
At the B2 level, 'dākin' becomes a tool for precision and literary flair. You will use it to describe subtle differences in shade and tone. You'll understand how to use 'dākinan' as a 'Hal' (state) to add adverbial detail to your sentences (e.g., 'The water appeared darkly under the moon'). You will also be able to compare it with synonyms like 'mu‘tim' or 'ḥālik' and choose the one that fits the context perfectly. Your vocabulary is now rich enough to discuss art, photography, or even social issues where 'darkness' might be a metaphor. You'll recognize the word in more complex texts, such as editorials or modern novels. You should be able to explain *why* you chose 'dākin' over 'ghāmiq' in a specific sentence. This level is about mastery of nuance and the ability to use 'dākin' to create a specific effect on the reader or listener.
At the C1 level, your use of 'dākin' and its root (D-K-N) should be near-native. You will understand its use in classical poetry and high-level academic writing. You might encounter the root in more obscure forms or in metaphorical contexts where 'darkness' represents something philosophical or abstract. You will be able to use 'dākinan' in complex rhetorical structures, perhaps in a speech or a formal debate. You'll also be aware of the historical etymology of the word and how its usage has evolved over time. At this stage, 'dākin' is not just a word for 'dark'; it's a part of a wider linguistic web that includes concepts of shadow, depth, and somberness. You can use it to describe the 'dark' side of a political situation or the 'dark' undercurrents of a piece of music. Your ability to use the word is now characterized by elegance and absolute grammatical correctness.
At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over 'dākin' and can use it with the same ease and subtlety as a highly educated native speaker. You can appreciate the word's role in the 'I'jaz' (inimitability) of Arabic literature. You might use it to discuss the play of light and shadow in a Caravaggio painting or the 'darkly' existential themes in a philosophical treatise, all while using the correct case endings and stylistic flourishes. You can differentiate between 'dākin' and every other related term in the Arabic lexicon with precision, explaining the psychological impact of each. For you, 'dākin' is a versatile brushstroke in a vast linguistic landscape. You might even use it in creative writing to subvert expectations or create unique metaphors. Your understanding of the word is deep, intuitive, and culturally grounded.

داكناً in 30 Sekunden

  • Means 'dark' or 'darkly'.
  • Used for colors and lighting.
  • Opposite of 'fātih' (light).
  • Often appears as 'dākinan' in descriptions.

The Arabic word داكناً (dākinan) is a versatile term primarily used to describe depth of color, intensity of shade, or the presence of shadows. In its grammatical form here, with the tanwin fatha, it often functions as an adverb of manner or an adjective in the accusative case (Mansub), describing how something appears or how a color is applied. At its core, it signifies a lack of brightness or a high concentration of pigment. When you walk into a room painted in deep navy or look at the sky just before the stars fully emerge, you are witnessing something that can be described as داكناً.

Color Depth
In the context of visual arts and fashion, this word is the standard way to specify 'dark' versions of colors. For instance, 'dark blue' (أزرق داكن) or 'dark green' (أخضر داكن). Using it in the accusative form داكناً often occurs in descriptive sentences following verbs of change or appearance.
Atmospheric Quality
Beyond just color, it can describe the quality of light in a space. A forest at dusk or a room with heavy curtains might be described using this term to convey a sense of gloom, mystery, or somberness. It suggests a density of shadow that goes beyond mere 'dimness'.
Linguistic Nuance
Etymologically, the root د-ك-ن (d-k-n) relates to things that are earthy or somber. Unlike 'Aswad' (Black), which is a specific color, dākin is a modifier of intensity. It is the difference between a bright sky and a stormy one.

رأيتُ البحرَ يبدو داكناً تحت غيوم الشتاء.

— I saw the sea appearing darkly under the winter clouds.

In everyday conversation, you will hear this word when people discuss interior design, clothing choices, or even the roasting of coffee beans. A 'dark roast' in Arabic might be referred to as 'muhammas dākin'. It carries a professional and descriptive tone, making it essential for anyone wanting to move beyond basic color vocabulary. It is also frequently used in literature to set a mood—often one of seriousness, sadness, or sophistication. For example, a 'dark suit' implies formality, whereas 'dark thoughts' (though usually expressed with other words) could metaphorically lean on this root for poetic effect.

صبغ الرسام اللوحة بلونٍ أحمر داكناً.

— The painter colored the canvas with a dark red color.

صار الثوب داكناً بعد غسله.

— The dress became dark after washing it.

Culturally, the concept of 'darkness' in colors often associates with luxury and durability in the Arab world. Dark wood (khashab dākin) is often seen in traditional Majlis settings to convey a sense of history and groundedness. When you use this word, you aren't just saying something isn't bright; you are adding a layer of texture and weight to your description. It is a word of precision. Instead of saying 'not light blue,' you say 'dark blue,' and suddenly your Arabic sounds much more natural and native-like.

أحب أن يكون شعري داكناً.

— I like my hair to be dark.

وجدنا الكهف داكناً جداً.

— We found the cave very dark.

Using داكناً correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as an adjective or an adverbial modifier. Because it ends in tanwin fatha, it typically appears in sentences where the object being described is in the accusative case, or when it follows 'transformative' verbs like ṣāra (became) or ja‘ala (made). It is not just a label; it is a descriptor of state.

After 'Becoming' Verbs
When something changes its shade, we use the verb 'ṣāra' (to become). Example: 'The sky became dark' (صارت السماءُ داكنةً). Note how the gender matches the subject. For a masculine subject like 'Al-Lawn' (the color), it becomes 'ṣāra al-lawn dākinan'.
Describing Direct Objects
If you are describing an object you are acting upon, the adjective must match the accusative case of the object. 'I bought a dark suit' (اشتريتُ بدلةً داكنةً). If the word were masculine and singular, you would use داكناً.
As a 'Hal' (State)
In Arabic grammar, 'Hal' describes the state of the subject or object during the action. 'He appeared darkly' (ظهر داكناً), meaning he appeared in a dark state or wearing dark clothes.

جعل المطرُ الترابَ داكناً.

— The rain made the soil dark.

When constructing sentences, remember that Arabic adjectives follow the noun they modify and must agree in four areas: gender, number, case, and definiteness. However, when dākinan is used adverbially or as a predicate of 'Kana', it takes the accusative form regardless of the noun's original state. This is why you see the '-an' ending so often in descriptive literature. It provides a sense of 'result'—the result of looking at something and perceiving its darkness.

يبدو هذا القماشُ داكناً جداً في الليل.

— This fabric looks very dark at night.

Furthermore, in technical contexts like photography or graphic design, you might use it to describe contrast. 'Make the background darkly' (اجعل الخلفية داكنة). Notice how the word adapts to the feminine 'Khalfiya'. If you were speaking about a masculine 'Zil' (shadow), you would say: 'I want the shadow to be dark' (أريد أن يكون الظل داكناً). This flexibility allows for precise visual communication.

لا تترك الخبز في الفرن حتى يصبح داكناً.

— Do not leave the bread in the oven until it becomes dark.

كان الأفق داكناً قبل العاصفة.

— The horizon was dark before the storm.

Finally, consider the emotional weight. In poetry, a heart might be described as dākin to suggest heavy sorrow or hidden secrets. While 'Aswad' (black) might be too harsh, dākin suggests a depth of feeling that is shadowed and complex. This makes it a favorite for writers who want to evoke mood without being overly simplistic.

رسمتُ وجهاً داكناً في مذكراتي.

— I drew a dark face in my diary.

While داكناً is a formal word, its presence is felt across various domains of modern Arab life, from the high-end fashion boutiques of Dubai to the weather forecasts on Al Jazeera. Understanding its context helps you recognize it in the wild.

News and Weather
Meteorologists often use this term to describe 'dark clouds' (سحب داكنة) that portend heavy rain. You might hear: 'The sky appeared darkly' (بدت السماء داكنة) as a way to set the scene for an incoming weather front.
Fashion and Retail
In luxury shopping malls, product descriptions for clothing often use 'dākin' to denote sophistication. A salesperson might describe a fabric as being 'darkly shaded' to emphasize its quality and richness. It sounds much more professional than the colloquial 'ghamiq'.
Art and Photography
In a gallery or a photography workshop, the instructor might tell you to 'make the shadows appear darker' (اجعل الظلال تبدو داكنة أكثر). It is the technical term for low-key lighting or deep pigmentation.

تفضل النساء في الشتاء الألوان التي تبدو داكنة.

— In winter, women prefer colors that look dark.

You will also encounter this word in culinary contexts, specifically when talking about coffee or chocolate. 'Dark chocolate' is 'shukūlāta dākina'. If you are ordering a coffee and want it strong and dark, using this word shows a high level of linguistic competence. In the world of literature, especially noir fiction or historical dramas, the word is used to describe alleyways, mysterious figures, or the 'dark' past of a character.

كان لون الخشب داكناً وعتيقاً.

— The color of the wood was dark and ancient.

Moreover, in medical or biological descriptions, it might be used to describe the color of skin, eyes, or hair in a clinical yet respectful manner. For example, 'dark-colored iris' (قزحية داكنة اللون). In these contexts, it is a neutral, descriptive term devoid of the slang connotations that other words might carry. It is the language of textbooks and encyclopedias.

تظهر البقع داكنة تحت المجهر.

— The spots appear dark under the microscope.

نرى الدخان داكناً يتصاعد من المصنع.

— We see dark smoke rising from the factory.

In summary, dākinan is the word of the observer. It is used when someone is looking at the world and reporting back on its shades and shadows. Whether it is the 'dark' ink on a page or the 'dark' blue of a uniform, it provides a level of descriptive clarity that is essential for effective communication in Arabic.

أصبح الجو داكناً فجأة.

— The atmosphere became dark suddenly.

Learning داكناً can be tricky for English speakers because of the way Arabic handles adjectives and case endings. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Confusing 'Dākin' with 'Aswad'
In English, we sometimes use 'black' and 'dark' interchangeably (e.g., 'it's black outside' vs 'it's dark outside'). In Arabic, Aswad is the color black, whereas Dākin is the intensity of any color. Don't say 'Aswad Blue'—say 'Azraq Dākin'.
Ignoring Case Endings (I'rab)
A common mistake is using داكناً (with tanwin fatha) when the word should be nominative (dākinun) or genitive (dākinin). Use dākinan specifically when it is a predicate of 'Kana' or a 'Hal'. If it's just a subject, it's 'dākin'.
Gender Agreement Mismatch
Remember that Arabic adjectives must match the noun's gender. If you are describing a 'car' (sayyara - feminine), you must use 'dākina' (داكنة). Many learners forget to add the 'ta marbuta' for feminine nouns.

خطأ: القميص داكنة.
صح: القميص داكنٌ.

— Error: The shirt is dark (fem). Correct: The shirt is dark (masc).

Another mistake is overusing 'Dākin' for 'dim light.' While it can be used, 'Khafit' (خافت) is often better for light that is weak or low. Dākin is specifically about the heaviness of the shade. For example, a 'dark room' is better described as 'ghurfa mu'tima' (dark/gloomy room) if you mean there are no lights on, whereas 'ghurfa dākina' might mean the walls are painted a dark color.

خطأ: الضوء داكن.
صح: الضوء خافتٌ.

— Error: The light is dark. Correct: The light is dim.

Finally, learners often struggle with the placement of the word. In English, we say 'dark blue.' In Arabic, it is 'blue dark' (أزرق داكن). If you reverse this, it sounds like 'dark of blue,' which is grammatically incorrect in this context. Always put the specific color first, then the modifier dākin.

خطأ: اشتريت سيارة داكناً.
صح: اشتريت سيارةً داكنةً.

— Error: I bought a dark (masc) car. Correct: I bought a dark (fem) car.

Arabic is a language of incredible depth, and while داكناً is a fantastic word, there are several alternatives that might fit your specific context even better. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about light, color, or mood.

غامق (Ghāmiq)
This is the most common synonym. In many dialects, it is the default word for 'dark' (e.g., 'lawn ghāmiq'). It is slightly less formal than 'dākin' but perfectly acceptable in most conversations. It literally means 'deep'.
معتم (Mu‘tim)
This refers to 'opaque' or 'gloomy'. If a room has no light at all, it is 'mu‘tim'. While 'dākin' describes a color's shade, 'mu‘tim' describes the absence of light itself. Use this for a dark cave or a dark night.
حالك (Ḥālik)
This is an intensive word, usually used with 'black' (aswad ḥālik) to mean 'pitch black'. It implies a darkness so deep you cannot see anything. It is much stronger than 'dākin'.
خافت (Khāfit)
Used specifically for light or sound. If a light is 'dark' in the sense of being dim or weak, use 'khāfit'. You wouldn't use 'dākin' to describe a whisper, but you would use 'khāfit'.

كان الليلُ حالكاً لا نرى فيه شيئاً.

— The night was pitch black; we couldn't see anything in it.

When deciding between dākin and ghāmiq, think of the register. If you are writing a poem, a news report, or a formal essay, dākin is superior. If you are at a market buying a shirt, ghāmiq is more natural. If you are describing a 'dark' person (in terms of being mysterious or somber), you might use ghāmiḍ (mysterious), which sounds similar but has a very different meaning.

هذا اللون غامق جداً، هل لديك أفتح؟

— This color is very deep (dark), do you have something lighter?

سأختار لوناً داكناً لطلاء المكتب.

— I will choose a dark color for painting the office.

In summary, while 'dākin' is your primary tool for 'dark', knowing these alternatives allows you to paint a more vivid picture in the mind of your listener. It shows you understand the nuances of the Arabic language beyond just basic translations.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The root D-K-N is also linked to the word 'Dukkan' (shop) in some linguistic traditions because early shops were often small, shaded, or 'dark' stalls.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈdaː.kin.an/
US /ˈdɑː.kɪn.æn/
First syllable (DA-kin-an).
Reimt sich auf
Sākinan (dwelling) Lākinan (but - rare form) Mākinan (enabling) Zākinan Fākinan Rākinan Tākinan Dākinan
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 'k' too harshly like a 'q'.
  • Missing the long 'a' sound (saying 'dakin' instead of 'daakin').
  • Forgetting the 'n' sound at the end in formal speech.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize once you know the color words.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires knowledge of gender agreement and case endings (tanwin).

Sprechen 2/5

Very useful for basic descriptions.

Hören 2/5

Common in media and weather reports.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

أزرق أخضر أحمر لون سماء

Als Nächstes lernen

فاتح باهت ساطع شفاف ملون

Fortgeschritten

حالك قاتم معتم سديم ظلال

Wichtige Grammatik

Adjective Agreement

سيارة (fem) + داكنة (fem)

Predicate of Kana

كان الجوُ داكناً (accusative)

Predicate of Sara

صار اللونُ داكناً (accusative)

Position of Adjectives

أزرق (color) + داكن (modifier)

Tanwin Fatha for Adverbs

ظهر داكناً (appeared darkly)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

هذا القميص أزرق داكن.

This shirt is dark blue.

'Azraq dākin' is a standard color-modifier pair.

2

أحب اللون الأخضر الداكن.

I love the dark green color.

'Al-Lawn' is the noun, 'al-akhdar' and 'al-dākin' are adjectives.

3

عندي حقيبة داكنة.

I have a dark bag.

'Dākina' is feminine to match 'haqiba'.

4

السماء داكنة اليوم.

The sky is dark today.

'Dākina' is the predicate (khabar) of the sentence.

5

شربتُ قهوة داكنة.

I drank dark coffee.

'Qahwa' is feminine, so 'dākina' is used.

6

هذا الخشب داكن جداً.

This wood is very dark.

'Jiddan' (very) follows the adjective.

7

أريد حذاءً داكناً.

I want a dark shoe.

'Dākinan' is accusative because 'hidha'an' is the object.

8

لون شعري بني داكن.

My hair color is dark brown.

'Bunni' (brown) is modified by 'dākin'.

1

صار الجو داكناً قبل المطر.

The weather became dark before the rain.

'Dākinan' is the predicate of 'ṣāra' (became).

2

اشتريتُ ثوباً أزرق داكناً للحفلة.

I bought a dark blue dress/robe for the party.

Note the double accusative for the color and its modifier.

3

كانت الغرفة داكنة بسبب الستائر.

The room was dark because of the curtains.

'Dākina' matches 'al-ghurfa' (feminine).

4

هل تفضل الشوكولاتة الداكنة؟

Do you prefer dark chocolate?

'Al-Dākina' is definite to match 'Al-Shukūlāta'.

5

رأيتُ قطةً لونها داكن.

I saw a cat whose color is dark.

A 'sifa' (description) clause.

6

يبدو البحر داكناً في الليل.

The sea looks dark at night.

'Dākinan' acts as a 'Hal' (state).

7

صبغنا الحائط بلونٍ رمادي داكن.

We painted the wall a dark grey color.

'Dākin' follows 'ramadi' (grey).

8

هذه الصورة داكنة جداً، لا أرى وجهك.

This photo is very dark, I can't see your face.

'Dākina' describes 'al-ṣūra'.

1

على الرغم من أن الوقت كان ظهراً، إلا أن السماء بدت داكنة.

Although it was noon, the sky appeared dark.

Use of 'badat' (appeared) with 'dākina'.

2

يفضل المصممون استخدام الخشب الداكن لإعطاء لمسة فخامة.

Designers prefer using dark wood to give a touch of luxury.

'Al-Dākin' modifies 'al-khashab'.

3

كان يرتدي معطفاً داكناً ليختفي في الزحام.

He was wearing a dark coat to disappear into the crowd.

'Dākinan' describes 'ma'tafan'.

4

أصبح لون الشاي داكناً بعد أن تركته طويلاً.

The color of the tea became dark after I left it for a long time.

'Dākinan' follows 'ṣāra'.

5

تتميز هذه المنطقة بغاباتها الداكنة والعميقة.

This region is characterized by its dark and deep forests.

Plural 'ghābāt' (feminine) takes 'al-dākina'.

6

رسم الفنان ظلالاً داكنة حول العينين.

The artist drew dark shadows around the eyes.

'Dākina' modifies the plural 'zilāl' (shadows).

7

وجدتُ الكتاب في زاوية داكنة من المكتبة.

I found the book in a dark corner of the library.

'Dākina' matches 'zāwiya' (feminine).

8

لماذا يبدو وجهك داكناً وحزيناً اليوم؟

Why does your face look dark and sad today?

Metaphorical use of 'dākinan' for mood.

1

كانت ملامحه تبدو داكنة تحت ضوء المصباح الخافت.

His features appeared darkly under the dim lamp light.

Contrast between 'dākina' and 'khāfit'.

2

اختارت الشركة شعاراً بلونٍ أزرق داكن ليعبر عن الثقة.

The company chose a dark blue logo to express trust.

'Dākin' used to describe brand identity.

3

تحولت مياه النهر إلى لونٍ داكن بعد الفيضان.

The river water turned to a dark color after the flood.

'Dākin' describing environmental change.

4

استخدم الكاتب أوصافاً داكنة ليعكس يأس الشخصية.

The writer used dark descriptions to reflect the character's despair.

Metaphorical use in literary analysis.

5

تظهر السحب داكنة ومنخفضة، مما ينذر بعاصفة قوية.

The clouds appear dark and low, portending a strong storm.

'Dākina' as a state (Hal).

6

يفضل بعض الرسامين استخدام خلفيات داكنة لإبراز الألوان الفاتحة.

Some painters prefer using dark backgrounds to highlight light colors.

Contrast between 'dākina' and 'fātiha'.

7

كانت القاعة داكنة، ولم نتمكن من رؤية من يتحدث.

The hall was dark, and we couldn't see who was speaking.

'Dākina' describing a large space.

8

لاحظتُ وجود بقعة داكنة على الحائط القديم.

I noticed a dark spot on the old wall.

'Dākina' modifies 'buq'a'.

1

تضفي الألوان الداكنة نوعاً من الوقار على المكان.

Dark colors impart a kind of dignity to the place.

'Al-Dākina' as a subject modifier.

2

بدت أفكاره داكنة كليلٍ لا فجر له.

His thoughts seemed as dark as a night with no dawn.

Simile using 'dākina'.

3

إن استخدام الظل الداكن في هذه اللوحة يعزز من عمقها الدرامي.

The use of dark shadow in this painting enhances its dramatic depth.

'Al-Dākin' in technical art criticism.

4

كان التاريخ السياسي لتلك الحقبة داكناً ومليئاً بالصراعات.

The political history of that era was dark and full of conflicts.

Abstract use for historical periods.

5

رأيتُ الدخان يتصاعد داكناً من فوهة البركان.

I saw the smoke rising darkly from the volcano's crater.

'Dākinan' as a 'Hal' for 'al-dukhān'.

6

تتطلب هذه العملية الكيميائية بيئة داكنة تماماً.

This chemical process requires a completely dark environment.

'Dākina' in a scientific context.

7

تتميز القهوة المحمصة داكناً بنكهة قوية ومرارة واضحة.

Darkly roasted coffee is characterized by a strong flavor and clear bitterness.

Adverbial use 'muhammasa dākinan'.

8

كانت نظراته داكنة، وكأنه يخفي سراً عظيماً.

His looks were dark, as if he were hiding a great secret.

Describing eyes/gaze metaphorically.

1

يتجلى الصراع بين النور والظلمة في تلك الرواية عبر تصوير العوالم الداكنة.

The conflict between light and darkness is manifested in that novel through the depiction of dark worlds.

High-level literary critique.

2

إن صبغة الأرجوان الداكنة كانت حكراً على الملوك في العصور القديمة.

The dark purple dye was exclusive to kings in ancient times.

Historical and cultural context.

3

توشحت المدينة بالسواد وبدت آفاقها داكنة بعد الرحيل.

The city was shrouded in black and its horizons appeared dark after the departure.

Poetic and metaphorical language.

4

تتداخل الألوان في هذه المنطقة من الطيف لتنتج ظلالاً داكنة يصعب تمييزها.

Colors overlap in this part of the spectrum to produce dark shadows that are hard to distinguish.

Technical scientific description.

5

كانت نبرة صوته داكنة، توحي بيأسٍ عميق لا قرار له.

The tone of his voice was dark, suggesting a bottomless, deep despair.

Synesthesia (describing sound with color).

6

لا يمكننا تجاهل الجوانب الداكنة من الطبيعة البشرية في تحليلنا.

We cannot ignore the dark aspects of human nature in our analysis.

Philosophical/Psychological use.

7

بدت الغابة في تلك الليلة داكنة بشكلٍ مخيف، وكأن الأشجار تراقبنا.

The forest appeared terrifyingly dark that night, as if the trees were watching us.

Intensive adverbial phrase.

8

إن الرؤية الداكنة للمستقبل قد تؤدي إلى شللٍ في الإرادة الجمعية.

A dark vision of the future may lead to a paralysis of the collective will.

Sociopolitical metaphor.

Häufige Kollokationen

أزرق داكن
أخضر داكن
شوكولاتة داكنة
سحب داكنة
خشب داكن
شعر داكن
بشرة داكنة
بقعة داكنة
لون داكن
ظل داكن

Häufige Phrasen

أصبح الجو داكناً

— The weather/atmosphere became dark.

أصبح الجو داكناً فجأة.

بدت السماء داكنة

— The sky appeared dark.

بدت السماء داكنة قبل العاصفة.

لون داكن وجميل

— A dark and beautiful color.

هذا الفستان له لون داكن وجميل.

في زاوية داكنة

— In a dark corner.

جلس في زاوية داكنة من المقهى.

تحت ضوء داكن

— Under dark/low light.

رأيت الخيال تحت ضوء داكن.

بني داكن جداً

— Very dark brown.

خشب الأبنوس بني داكن جداً.

ملابس داكنة

— Dark clothes.

يفضل ارتداء ملابس داكنة في الشتاء.

غابة داكنة

— Dark forest.

ضاع الطفل في غابة داكنة.

صبغ داكن

— Dark dye/stain.

استخدم صبغاً داكناً للخشب.

أفق داكن

— Dark horizon.

كان الأفق داكناً ومخيفاً.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

داكناً vs غامق

'Ghāmiq' is more common in dialects, 'Dākin' is more formal.

داكناً vs مظلم

'Muẓlim' means a place without light; 'Dākin' means a dark shade of color.

داكناً vs غامض

'Ghāmiḍ' means mysterious; it sounds similar but is spelled differently.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"أيام داكنة"

— Difficult or sad times.

مرت البلاد بأيام داكنة خلال الحرب.

Metaphorical
"مستقبل داكن"

— A bleak or uncertain future.

يرى البعض مستقبلاً داكناً للاقتصاد.

Metaphorical
"نظرة داكنة"

— A pessimistic outlook.

لديه نظرة داكنة للحياة.

Metaphorical
"سحابة داكنة فوق..."

— A sense of gloom or trouble hanging over something.

هناك سحابة داكنة فوق علاقتنا.

Metaphorical
"في ظلال داكنة"

— In a state of obscurity or secrecy.

تتم الصفقات في ظلال داكنة.

Literary
"قلب داكن"

— A heart full of malice or sorrow.

لا تملك قلباً داكناً تجاه أحد.

Poetic
"وجه داكن"

— A frowning or angry face.

عاد إلى البيت بوجه داكن.

Metaphorical
"صفحة داكنة"

— A shameful or sad chapter in history.

هذه صفحة داكنة في تاريخ البشرية.

Formal
"أفكار داكنة"

— Depressing or evil thoughts.

تراوده أفكار داكنة أحياناً.

Psychological
"بصمة داكنة"

— A negative or lasting bad impression.

ترك الحادث بصمة داكنة في ذاكرته.

Literary

Leicht verwechselbar

داكناً vs أسود

Both relate to darkness.

'Aswad' is the specific color black. 'Dākin' is the intensity of any color.

هذا أزرق داكن وليس أسود.

داكناً vs باهت

Both describe color quality.

'Bāhit' means faded or pale (the opposite of 'dākin').

هذا اللون باهت، أريد لوناً داكناً.

داكناً vs خافت

Both relate to low intensity.

'Khāfit' is for light and sound. 'Dākin' is for color and shade.

الضوء خافت واللون داكن.

داكناً vs معتم

Both mean dark.

'Mu‘tim' is for opacity or lack of light in a space. 'Dākin' is for pigment depth.

الزجاج معتم والطلاء داكن.

داكناً vs قاتم

Very similar meaning.

'Qātim' often implies a dull or somber darkness, sometimes used metaphorically for gloom.

جو قاتم.

Satzmuster

A1

[Color] + داكن

أزرق داكن

A2

[Noun] + [Color] + داكن

قميص أزرق داكن

A2

صار + [Noun] + داكناً

صار الجو داكناً

B1

يبدو + [Noun] + داكناً

يبدو البحر داكناً

B1

[Noun] + ذو لون + داكن

خشب ذو لون داكن

B2

على الرغم من... بدت... داكنة

على الرغم من الشمس بدت الغرفة داكنة

C1

توشح بـ + [Noun] + داكن

توشح الجبل بضباب داكن

C2

إنَّ + [Noun] + الداكن + [Verb]

إنَّ الأفق الداكن ينذر بالخطر

Wortfamilie

Substantive

دكنة (Dukna) - Darkness/Duskiness
دكان (Dukkan) - Shop (Etymologically related in some theories via 'bench')

Verben

دكن (Dakuna) - To be dark/dusky
أدكن (Adkana) - To make dark

Adjektive

داكن (Dākin) - Dark
أدكن (Adkan) - Darker/Duskier (Masculine)
دكناء (Daknā') - Darker (Feminine)

Verwandt

غامق
معتم
مظلم
قاتم
أسود

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in descriptive contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Saying 'Dākin Azraq' Azraq Dākin

    In Arabic, the adjective (dark) must follow the noun/color it describes.

  • Using 'Dākin' for a feminine noun. Dākina

    Adjectives must agree in gender. 'Sayyara' is feminine, so use 'dākina'.

  • Using 'Dākin' to mean 'pitch black' room. Mu'tim or Muẓlim

    'Dākin' is about color shade. For a room with no light, use 'muẓlim'.

  • Forgetting the tanwin in 'ṣāra al-lawn dākinan'. dākinan

    The predicate of 'ṣāra' must be in the accusative case (Mansub).

  • Confusing 'Dākin' with 'Ghāmiḍ'. Dākin

    'Ghāmiḍ' means mysterious or vague. 'Dākin' means dark in color.

Tipps

Case Matters

Use 'dākinan' after the verb 'ṣāra' (became) to correctly show the change in state. Example: 'ṣāra al-lawn dākinan'.

Color Modifiers

Learn 'dākin' (dark) and 'fātih' (light) together as a pair. They are the two most important modifiers for colors.

Dialect Tip

If you are in a market, use 'ghāmiq'. If you are in a business meeting or writing an email, use 'dākin'.

Contextual Meaning

In the desert, 'dākin' clouds are a happy sight because they mean rain is coming soon.

Agreement

Always look at the noun before the color. If it's feminine, the color and 'dākina' must both be feminine.

Root Recognition

Look for the D-K-N root. Even if the word changes form, it will usually relate to something dark or somber.

Weather Reports

Watch Arabic weather reports. They use 'dākina' constantly to describe the sky and clouds.

Elegance

Using 'dākin' instead of 'aswad' for deep colors makes your Arabic sound more sophisticated and precise.

Mnemonic

Remember: A 'Dark Inn' is 'Dākin'. It’s an easy way to link the sound to the meaning.

Versatility

Don't be afraid to use 'dākin' for non-color things like 'dark wood' or 'dark smoke'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Dark Inn' (Dākin). It's a dark place to stay.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a deep blue sea at night. That deep shade is 'Dākin'.

Word Web

Color Shadow Night Blue Green Chocolate Coffee Sky

Herausforderung

Try to describe three things in your room using 'dākin' (e.g., your phone, a book, a chair).

Wortherkunft

From the Arabic root د-ك-ن (D-K-N).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Relating to a color that is between black and red, or simply earthy and somber.

Semitic (Arabic).

Kultureller Kontext

Generally a neutral term, but avoid using it to describe people's skin color in a derogatory way; 'asmar' (tan/brown) is usually preferred for people.

English speakers use 'dark' for both light levels and color shades; Arabic prefers 'mu‘tim' for light levels and 'dākin' for color shades.

Modern Arabic novels often use 'dākin' to describe the 'dark' atmosphere of cities during war. Used in Arabic translations of 'Dark Chocolate' packaging.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Shopping for Clothes

  • هل لديك لون داكن؟
  • أفضل الأزرق الداكن.
  • هذا داكن جداً.
  • أريد شيئاً أقل دكنة.

Describing Weather

  • السماء داكنة اليوم.
  • سحب داكنة تقترب.
  • الجو صار داكناً.
  • المطر جعل الأرض داكنة.

Art and Design

  • استخدم لوناً داكناً.
  • الخلفية داكنة.
  • اجعل الظل داكناً.
  • تدرج من الفاتح إلى الداكن.

Food and Drink

  • قهوة محمصة داكناً.
  • شوكولاتة داكنة.
  • شاي داكن الثقل.
  • عسل داكن اللون.

Literature

  • ليل داكن.
  • نظرة داكنة.
  • أفكار داكنة.
  • ماضٍ داكن.

Gesprächseinstiege

"أي لون تفضل لغرفتك، الفاتح أم الداكن؟"

"لماذا تبدو السماء داكنة جداً اليوم؟"

"هل تحب الشوكولاتة الداكنة أم بالحليب؟"

"هل تعتقد أن الملابس الداكنة تناسبني؟"

"ماذا تفعل عندما تصبح الغرفة داكنة فجأة؟"

Tagebuch-Impulse

صف يوماً كانت فيه السماء داكنة جداً.

لماذا يختار بعض الناس الألوان الداكنة لبيوتهم؟

اكتب عن ذكرى مرتبطة بمكان داكن.

هل تفضل القهوة الداكنة؟ لماذا؟

كيف تشعر عندما يكون الجو داكناً في الخارج؟

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Mainly yes, it describes the shade of a color. However, it can also describe the quality of light or atmosphere in a room or sky, making it look 'darkly' or shadowed.

'Dākin' is Modern Standard Arabic (formal). 'Ghāmiq' is used in daily dialects (like Egyptian or Levantine). Both mean 'dark'.

The '-an' (tanwin fatha) is the accusative case. It is used when the word is an object, a predicate of 'Kana/Sara', or an adverb describing a state (Hal).

In Arabic, you say the color first: 'Azraq dākin' (أزرق داكن).

Yes, metaphorically. You can say 'naza'a dākina' (a dark tendency) or 'afkār dākina' (dark thoughts), though 'hazīn' (sad) or 'mu'lim' (painful) are more direct.

Yes, it is very common in books, news, and formal descriptions of products and nature.

The feminine form is 'dākina' (داكنة). You use it with feminine nouns like 'sayyara' (car) or 'ghurfa' (room).

No, 'black' is 'aswad'. 'Dākin' is 'dark'. You can have dark blue, dark green, or dark red.

It is pronounced 'Dā-ki-nan'. The first 'a' is long, and the 'n' at the end is clearly heard in formal speech.

The opposite is 'fātih' (فاتح), which means light or bright.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence in Arabic using 'أزرق داكن'.

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writing

Translate: 'The sky became dark.'

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writing

Describe your favorite color using 'daakin'.

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writing

Use 'daakinan' in a sentence after the verb 'ṣāra'.

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writing

Translate: 'I prefer dark chocolate.'

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writing

Write a short description of a storm using 'daakin'.

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writing

Translate: 'Dark shadows appeared on the wall.'

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writing

Use 'daakin' to describe a piece of furniture.

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writing

Translate: 'He has dark brown eyes.'

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writing

Write a sentence about 'dark coffee'.

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writing

Translate: 'The forest was dark and scary.'

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writing

Use 'daakin' to describe a car.

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writing

Translate: 'The sea looks dark at night.'

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writing

Write a sentence about 'dark blue' clothes.

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writing

Translate: 'Dark smoke came out of the fire.'

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writing

Use 'daakin' in a metaphorical sense.

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writing

Translate: 'I need a dark color for this room.'

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writing

Write a sentence about 'dark clouds'.

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writing

Translate: 'The bread became dark in the oven.'

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writing

Use 'daakin' to describe a suit.

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speaking

Say 'Dark blue' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The room is dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I like dark chocolate' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The sky became dark' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'Dark green' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'He wears a dark suit' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'This wood is dark' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'I have dark hair' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The coffee is dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Dark clouds' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'A dark spot' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The color became dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I prefer dark colors' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The sea is dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A dark corner' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Dark brown eyes' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The atmosphere is dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Dark smoke' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Dark grey' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The forest is dark' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to 'Dākin'. What does it mean?

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listening

Listen to 'Azraq Dākin'. What color is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Samaa Dākina'. What is dark?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Qahwa Dākina'. What drink is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Shukūlāta Dākina'. What food is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Suhub Dākina'. What are they?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Khashab Dākin'. What material is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Lawn Dākin'. What does it mean?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Dākinan' in 'Ṣāra dākinan'. What case is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Zāwiya Dākina'. Where is it?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Badla Dākina'. What is the person wearing?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Sha'r Dākin'. What is dark?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Baq'a Dākina'. What is on the cloth?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Ghurfa Dākina'. What is the room like?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to 'Dukhān Dākin'. What is rising?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

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