مستعمل en 30 segundos

  • Describes items that are not new.
  • Means 'used' or 'second-hand'.
  • Common for cars, furniture, electronics.
  • Opposite of 'new' (جديد).

The Arabic word مستعمل (mustaʿmal) is an adjective that describes something that has been used before. It's the direct equivalent of 'used' or 'second-hand' in English. When you encounter this word, it almost always refers to items that are no longer new. Think about buying a car, a piece of furniture, or even clothing; if it's not brand new, it's likely described as مستعمل.

People use مستعمل in various everyday situations. For example, if you're browsing an online marketplace or a physical store that sells pre-owned goods, you'll frequently see this term. It signals that the item has a history of ownership and use, which often implies a lower price compared to a new item. It's a very practical word for anyone looking to save money or for those who prefer to buy pre-owned items for environmental reasons. The concept is universal, so understanding مستعمل opens up a significant portion of consumer vocabulary.

Consider the context of a garage sale or a flea market; almost everything there would be مستعمل. In formal settings, like a contract for a used car, it would also be used. It's a neutral term, not carrying any negative connotations, simply stating a fact about the item's condition. The opposite of مستعمل would be 'جديد' (jadīd), meaning 'new'. So, when you see مستعمل, remember it signifies a pre-owned item.

Key Concept
The term مستعمل is fundamental for understanding transactions involving non-new goods.
Everyday Use
You'll hear it when people discuss buying or selling items that aren't brand new, such as cars, furniture, electronics, and clothing.
Contrast with New
It's the direct opposite of 'جديد' (jadīd), meaning 'new'.

This book is used. هذا الكتاب مستعمل.

I want to buy a used car. أريد شراء سيارة مستعملة.

Using مستعمل in sentences is straightforward, as it functions like the English word 'used' or 'second-hand'. It typically follows the noun it describes, and it agrees in gender and number with that noun. For masculine singular nouns, it's مستعمل. For feminine singular nouns, it becomes مستعملة (mustaʿmalah). For plural nouns, it usually remains مستعمل when referring to inanimate objects, or it can take a plural form if referring to animate beings, though this is less common for inanimate objects.

Let's look at some examples. To say 'a used book', you would say 'كتاب مستعمل' (kitāb mustaʿmal). If you're talking about a 'used chair', which is feminine, you'd say 'كرسي مستعملة' (kursī mustaʿmalah). For 'used cars', which is plural, you might say 'سيارات مستعملة' (sayyārāt mustaʿmalah). The structure is generally: Noun + Adjective.

You can also use it in sentences describing a state or condition. For instance, 'This phone is used' would be 'هذا الهاتف مستعمل' (hādhā al-hātif mustaʿmal). Or, 'Her clothes are used' could be 'ملابسها مستعملة' (malābisuhā mustaʿmalah). When asking about the condition, you might ask, 'Is this item used?' - 'هل هذه السلعة مستعملة؟' (hal hādhihi al-silʿah mustaʿmalah?).

Remember that مستعمل implies that the item has been previously owned and used, so it's often associated with lower prices. It's a versatile adjective that you'll find yourself using frequently when discussing purchases or the condition of belongings.

Gender Agreement
Masculine singular: مستعمل. Feminine singular: مستعملة.
Plural Forms
For inanimate plurals, it often remains مستعمل or takes the feminine singular form مستعملة when referring to plural objects collectively.
Sentence Structure
Typically follows the noun: Noun + مستعمل/مستعملة.

This table is used. هذه الطاولة مستعملة.

I bought used furniture. اشتريت أثاثاً مستعملاً.

You'll hear مستعمل in a wide variety of everyday settings. One of the most common places is in advertisements for selling pre-owned goods. Online marketplaces like OLX, Facebook Marketplace equivalents in Arabic-speaking countries, and local classified ad sites are filled with listings describing items as مستعمل. This applies to everything from electronics like phones and laptops, to furniture, appliances, and even vehicles.

When people are discussing purchases, especially when trying to save money, they might say things like, 'I'm looking for a used car' (أبحث عن سيارة مستعملة - abḥath ʿan sayyārah mustaʿmalah) or 'Is this sofa still available, and is it used?' (هل هذه الأريكة متاحة، وهل هي مستعملة؟ - hal hādhihi al-arīkah mutāḥah, wa hal hiya mustaʿmalah?). You'll also hear it in physical stores that specialize in second-hand items, such as thrift stores or consignment shops.

In informal conversations among friends or family, if someone mentions buying something, the question of whether it's new or used might come up, leading to the use of مستعمل. For example, 'Did you buy a new phone or a used one?' (هل اشتريت هاتفاً جديداً أم مستعملاً؟ - hal ishtarayta hātifan jadīdan am mustaʿmalan?). This word is so common that it's almost impossible to discuss the second-hand market without it.

Online Marketplaces
Frequently seen in ads for cars, electronics, furniture, and clothing.
Retail Stores
Used in descriptions in thrift stores, consignment shops, and specialized second-hand dealers.
Personal Conversations
When discussing purchases, especially budget-conscious ones.

This laptop is used and in good condition. هذا الحاسوب المحمول مستعمل وبحالة جيدة.

Are you selling used books? هل تبيع كتباً مستعملة؟

One of the most common mistakes learners make with مستعمل is forgetting to adjust it for gender. Arabic adjectives must agree with the nouns they modify. If the noun is feminine, the adjective needs to take its feminine form, مستعملة (mustaʿmalah). Forgetting this leads to grammatical errors. For example, saying 'سيارة مستعمل' (sayyārah mustaʿmal) instead of 'سيارة مستعملة' (sayyārah mustaʿmalah) is incorrect.

Another potential pitfall is assuming مستعمل always refers to something in poor condition. While it implies use, it doesn't inherently mean damaged or broken. An item can be مستعمل but still be in excellent working order. Learners might incorrectly equate it with 'broken' or 'worn out'.

A less frequent but still possible mistake is related to plurals. While مستعمل can be used for inanimate plurals, sometimes a more specific plural form might be preferred depending on context or dialect, although for A1 learners, sticking to the singular agreement is key. For inanimate objects, مستعملة is often used for plural nouns too, treating them as a collective feminine singular. For example, 'كتب مستعملة' (kutub mustaʿmalah - used books) is common.

Finally, some learners might confuse مستعمل with words that imply repair or old age in a negative sense. It's important to remember that مستعمل is a neutral descriptor of condition, not a judgment of quality or value, beyond the fact that it's not new.

Gender Agreement Error
Forgetting to use مستعملة for feminine nouns. Correct: 'سيارة مستعملة'. Incorrect: 'سيارة مستعمل'.
Condition Misinterpretation
Assuming 'used' implies 'bad condition'. مستعمل simply means 'not new'.
Plural Agreement Nuances
While مستعملة is common for inanimate plurals, ensure context is understood. Correct: 'أجهزة مستعملة' (ajhizah mustaʿmalah - used devices).

Incorrect: This chair is used. هذه الكرسي مستعمل. Correct: هذه الكرسي مستعملة.

Incorrect: I need a used pen. أحتاج قلماً مستعمل. Correct: أحتاج قلماً مستعملاً.

The most direct antonym and counterpart to مستعمل is 'جديد' (jadīd), meaning 'new'. When describing an item, you are usually choosing between these two states: is it new, or is it used? For example, 'This car is new' (هذه السيارة جديدة - hādhihi al-sayyārah jadīdah) versus 'This car is used' (هذه السيارة مستعملة - hādhihi al-sayyārah mustaʿmalah).

While مستعمل is the standard term for 'used' or 'second-hand', there are related concepts. For instance, 'قديم' (qadīm) means 'old'. An item can be both old and used, or old but barely used, or new but old stock. 'قديم' focuses on age, while مستعمل focuses on prior usage. A 'قديم' item might be an antique, which could be valuable and not necessarily 'used' in the sense of everyday wear and tear.

In some contexts, particularly when referring to things that are worn out or have lost their original quality due to use, you might hear terms like 'بالٍ' (bālin) or 'متهالك' (mutahālik). These words carry a more negative connotation, implying significant wear, damage, or being in poor condition. مستعمل is neutral; 'بالٍ' and 'متهالك' are negative. For example, a 'متهالك' chair is one that is falling apart, whereas a 'مستعملة' chair could be perfectly functional.

Another related term is 'مخزون' (makhzūn), meaning 'stock' or 'inventory'. 'مخزون قديم' (makhzūn qadīm) would refer to old stock, which might be new but has been sitting in a warehouse for a long time. This is different from مستعمل, which implies it has been in the hands of a consumer.

جديد (Jadīd) - New
The direct opposite. Example: 'سيارة جديدة' (new car) vs 'سيارة مستعملة' (used car).
قديم (Qadīm) - Old
Focuses on age, not necessarily usage. An item can be old but unused, or used but not old.
بالٍ (Bālin) / متهالك (Mutahālik) - Worn out / Dilapidated
Implies poor condition due to heavy use or age, carrying negative connotations. مستعمل is neutral.

This is a used phone. هذا هاتف مستعمل.

This is an old book. هذا كتاب قديم.

This is a worn-out sofa. هذه أريكة بالية.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"تخضع جميع المركبات المستعملة لفحص فني شامل قبل التسجيل."

Neutral

"أبحث عن طاولة مستعملة لمطبخي."

Informal

"هذا الجوال مستعمل بس سعره كويس."

Child friendly

"هذه اللعبة مستعملة، لكنها ما زالت ممتعة!"

Dato curioso

The root ع-م-ل (ʿ-m-l) is incredibly productive in Arabic, giving rise to words like 'عمل' (ʿamal - work), 'عامل' (ʿāmil - worker), 'معمل' (maʿmal - factory/lab), and 'معمول' (maʿmūl - done/made). The passive participle form مستعمل fits perfectly into this pattern of describing the result of an action.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /mʊsˈtæm.məl/
US /mʊsˈtæm.məl/
The stress falls on the second syllable: mus-TA-mal.
Rima con
مُكتمل (muktamal - complete) مُعتمد (muʿtamad - approved) مُتأمل (mutaʾammal - contemplative) مُستدل (mustadall - evidenced) مُختزل (mukhtazal - reduced) مُنتقل (muntaqal - transferred) مُستقبل (mustaqbal - future) مُحتمل (muḥtamal - probable)
Errores comunes
  • Mispronouncing the 'a' sound, making it too short.
  • Incorrectly stressing the wrong syllable.
  • Not clearly articulating the double 'm' sound.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 1/5

At A1 level, recognizing <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> in simple sentences and signs is expected. Understanding its meaning is straightforward.

Escritura 1/5

Basic usage involves correctly applying it after a noun, paying attention to gender agreement. This is achievable at A1.

Expresión oral 1/5

Using it in simple phrases like 'سيارة مستعملة' or asking 'هل هو مستعمل؟' is appropriate for A1 learners.

Escucha 1/5

Recognizing the word when spoken in clear, simple contexts like advertisements or sales interactions is expected.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

جديد (new) اسم (noun) صفة (adjective) مذكر (masculine) مؤنث (feminine)

Aprende después

قديم (old) بالٍ (worn out) تخفيض (discount) سعر (price) سوق (market)

Avanzado

تجديد (refurbishment) ترميم (restoration) إعادة تدوير (recycling) استدامة (sustainability) عمر افتراضي (lifespan)

Gramática que debes saber

Adjective Agreement (Gender)

The adjective مستعمل must agree in gender with the noun it modifies. For masculine nouns, it is مستعمل. For feminine nouns, it becomes مستعملة. Example: 'كتاب مستعمل' (used book - masculine) vs 'سيارة مستعملة' (used car - feminine).

Adjective Agreement (Number)

For inanimate plural nouns, the feminine singular form of the adjective (مستعملة) is often used. Example: 'أثاث مستعملة' (used furniture - plural noun, feminine singular adjective).

Definite and Indefinite Articles

When the noun is indefinite, the adjective is also indefinite: 'هاتف مستعمل' (a used phone). When the noun is definite, the adjective also takes the definite article: 'الهاتف المستعمل' (the used phone).

Position of Adjectives

In Arabic, descriptive adjectives typically follow the noun they modify. Example: 'قلب مستعمل' (a used heart - metaphorical).

Comparison with Antonyms

Understanding the contrast between مستعمل (used) and 'جديد' (new) is crucial for accurate description. Example: 'اشتريت قميصاً جديداً، وليس مستعملاً.' (I bought a new shirt, not a used one.)

Ejemplos por nivel

1

هذا القميص مستعمل.

This shirt is used.

The noun 'قميص' (shirt) is masculine, so the adjective 'مستعمل' is also masculine.

2

أريد شراء طاولة مستعملة.

I want to buy a used table.

The noun 'طاولة' (table) is feminine, so the adjective becomes 'مستعملة'.

3

هل الهاتف مستعمل؟

Is the phone used?

The noun 'هاتف' (phone) is masculine.

4

الكتب مستعملة.

The books are used.

For inanimate plurals like 'كتب' (books), the feminine singular adjective 'مستعملة' is often used.

5

السيارة مستعملة.

The car is used.

The noun 'سيارة' (car) is feminine.

6

هذه حقيبة مستعملة.

This bag is used.

The noun 'حقيبة' (bag) is feminine.

7

هل تبيعون أشياء مستعملة؟

Do you sell used things?

'أشياء' (things) is a plural noun, and 'مستعملة' is commonly used for inanimate plurals.

8

هذا كرسي مستعمل.

This chair is used.

The noun 'كرسي' (chair) is grammatically masculine in MSA, hence 'مستعمل'.

1

لقد اشتريت جهاز تلفزيون مستعمل بسعر جيد.

I bought a used television set at a good price.

The noun 'جهاز تلفزيون' (television set) is masculine.

2

هل هذه الملابس مستعملة؟

Are these clothes used?

'ملابس' (clothes) is a plural noun, and 'مستعملة' is appropriate here.

3

نحن نبحث عن أثاث مستعمل للمنزل الجديد.

We are looking for used furniture for the new home.

'أثاث' (furniture) is a collective noun, often treated as masculine singular or using the feminine singular adjective for plurals.

4

المكتبة لديها قسم للكتب المستعملة.

The library has a section for used books.

'كتب' (books) is plural, and 'مستعملة' is the common form for inanimate plurals.

5

هل يمكنني رؤية السيارة المستعملة؟

Can I see the used car?

'السيارة' (the car) is feminine, hence 'المستعملة'.

6

هذه الأدوات مستعملة ولكنها تعمل بشكل جيد.

These tools are used but they work well.

'أدوات' (tools) is a plural noun, and 'مستعملة' is used.

7

اشتريت لوحة فنية مستعملة من معرض.

I bought a used painting from a gallery.

'لوحة فنية' (painting) is feminine.

8

هل يوجد لديك أي أجهزة إلكترونية مستعملة؟

Do you have any used electronic devices?

'أجهزة إلكترونية' (electronic devices) is a plural phrase.

1

أفكر في شراء دراجة نارية مستعملة لتوفير المال.

I am considering buying a used motorcycle to save money.

'دراجة نارية' (motorcycle) is feminine.

2

عادة ما تكون الأجهزة المستعملة أرخص بكثير من الجديدة.

Used appliances are usually much cheaper than new ones.

'الأجهزة' (appliances) is a plural noun.

3

لقد وجدت هذا الكتاب المستعمل في سوق الكتب القديمة.

I found this used book in the old book market.

'الكتاب' (the book) is masculine.

4

هل تفضل شراء سيارة مستعملة أم استئجار سيارة جديدة؟

Do you prefer buying a used car or renting a new car?

Comparing 'سيارة مستعملة' (used car) and 'سيارة جديدة' (new car).

5

تبيع العديد من المتاجر أثاثاً مستعملاً بحالة جيدة.

Many stores sell used furniture in good condition.

'أثاثاً' (furniture) is treated as masculine singular here, hence 'مستعملاً'.

6

من المهم فحص أي جهاز مستعمل بعناية قبل الشراء.

It is important to inspect any used device carefully before buying.

'جهاز' (device) is masculine.

7

هذه التحف المستعملة لها قيمة تاريخية كبيرة.

These used antiques have great historical value.

'تحف' (antiques) is a plural noun.

8

هل يمكنني الحصول على خصم إضافي لأن الهاتف مستعمل؟

Can I get an additional discount because the phone is used?

'الهاتف' (the phone) is masculine.

1

عند شراء منزل مستعمل، يجب التأكد من حالة البنية التحتية.

When buying a used house, one must ensure the condition of the infrastructure.

'منزل' (house) is masculine.

2

العديد من الشباب يفضلون شراء سيارات مستعملة بسبب التكلفة.

Many young people prefer to buy used cars due to the cost.

'سيارات' (cars) is plural.

3

كانت الأداة مستعملة لسنوات عديدة قبل أن تتوقف عن العمل.

The tool had been used for many years before it stopped working.

'الأداة' (the tool) is feminine.

4

تخضع جميع المعدات المستعملة لفحص دقيق قبل إعادة بيعها.

All used equipment undergoes a thorough inspection before being resold.

'المعدات' (equipment) is a plural noun.

5

الحصول على قطع غيار مستعملة قد يكون صعباً لبعض الموديلات القديمة.

Getting used spare parts can be difficult for some older models.

'قطع غيار' (spare parts) is a plural phrase.

6

تم تجديد الأجهزة المستعملة وتقديمها بضمان محدود.

The used appliances were refurbished and offered with a limited warranty.

'الأجهزة' (appliances) is plural.

7

هل تعتقد أن شراء أجهزة إلكترونية مستعملة يعتبر استثماراً جيداً؟

Do you think buying used electronic devices is a good investment?

'أجهزة إلكترونية' (electronic devices) is plural.

8

غالباً ما تحتفظ الكتب المستعملة بقيمتها إذا كانت نادرة.

Used books often retain their value if they are rare.

'الكتب' (books) is plural.

1

إن الاستثمار في العقارات المستعملة يتطلب دراسة متأنية للسوق والتشريعات.

Investing in used real estate requires careful study of the market and regulations.

'العقارات' (real estate) is a plural noun.

2

تعتبر إعادة تدوير الملابس المستعملة حلاً مستداماً للحد من النفايات.

Recycling used clothes is a sustainable solution to reduce waste.

'الملابس' (clothes) is plural.

3

يجب على المشتري توخي الحذر عند شراء مركبات مستعملة، خاصة إذا لم يكن لديه خبرة ميكانيكية.

The buyer must exercise caution when purchasing used vehicles, especially if they lack mechanical experience.

'مركبات' (vehicles) is plural.

4

لا ينبغي الاستهانة بقيمة الكتب المستعملة، فهي قد تحتوي على ملاحظات قيمة من قراء سابقين.

The value of used books should not be underestimated, as they may contain valuable notes from previous readers.

'الكتب' (books) is plural.

5

تتطلب صيانة الأجهزة المستعملة معرفة متخصصة قد لا تكون متاحة بسهولة.

Maintaining used appliances requires specialized knowledge that may not be readily available.

'الأجهزة' (appliances) is plural.

6

غالباً ما تكون القطع الأثرية المستعملة المعروضة في المتاحف قد مرت بعمليات ترميم معقدة.

Used artifacts displayed in museums have often undergone complex restoration processes.

'القطع الأثرية' (artifacts) is a plural phrase.

7

يجب على البائع أن يكون شفافاً بشأن حالة الأثاث المستعمل لتجنب المشاكل.

The seller must be transparent about the condition of the used furniture to avoid problems.

'الأثاث' (furniture) is treated as masculine singular here.

8

إن شراء أدوات مستعملة من ورشة قديمة يمكن أن يكون مصدراً للأدوات الفريدة.

Buying used tools from an old workshop can be a source of unique instruments.

'أدوات' (tools) is plural.

1

تتطلب إدارة المخزون من الأصول المستعملة استراتيجيات تقييم متطورة لضمان القيمة المثلى.

Managing inventory of used assets requires sophisticated valuation strategies to ensure optimal value.

'الأصول' (assets) is plural.

2

في سوق السلع الفاخرة المستعملة، تلعب الأصالة والتوثيق دوراً حاسماً في تحديد قيمتها.

In the market for used luxury goods, authenticity and documentation play a crucial role in determining their value.

'السلع' (goods) is plural.

3

يجب أن يدرك المستثمرون أن الأوراق المالية المستعملة قد تحمل مخاطر مرتبطة بتقادم التكنولوجيا أو التغيرات التنظيمية.

Investors must realize that used securities may carry risks associated with technological obsolescence or regulatory changes.

'الأوراق المالية' (securities) is a plural phrase.

4

تعد المركبات المستعملة التي تخضع لعمليات تجديد شاملة خياراً جذاباً للمستهلكين الذين يبحثون عن الجودة بسعر معقول.

Used vehicles that undergo comprehensive refurbishment are an attractive option for consumers seeking quality at a reasonable price.

'المركبات' (vehicles) is plural.

5

إن فهم التاريخ التشغيلي للمعدات المستعملة أمر حيوي لتقدير عمرها الإنتاجي المتبقي.

Understanding the operational history of used equipment is vital for estimating its remaining productive lifespan.

'المعدات' (equipment) is plural.

6

تخضع مجموعات المقتنيات المستعملة، مثل الطوابع أو العملات، لتقييم دقيق من قبل خبراء متخصصين.

Collections of used collectibles, such as stamps or coins, undergo meticulous evaluation by specialized experts.

'مجموعات' (collections) is plural.

7

يتطلب بيع الأجهزة الطبية المستعملة الامتثال لمعايير صارمة لضمان سلامة المرضى.

Selling used medical equipment requires compliance with strict standards to ensure patient safety.

'الأجهزة الطبية' (medical equipment) is a plural phrase.

8

إن تقييم قيمة الأعمال الفنية المستعملة يعتمد على عوامل متعددة، بما في ذلك شهرة الفنان وحالة العمل.

Assessing the value of used artworks depends on multiple factors, including the artist's renown and the work's condition.

'الأعمال الفنية' (artworks) is a plural phrase.

Colocaciones comunes

سيارة مستعملة
هاتف مستعمل
أثاث مستعمل
ملابس مستعملة
كتب مستعملة
جهاز مستعمل
منزل مستعمل
أدوات مستعملة
بضائع مستعملة
معدات مستعملة

Frases Comunes

هل هو مستعمل؟

— Is it used?

عند شراء أي شيء، يسأل البائع: هل هو مستعمل؟

أريد شراء شيء مستعمل.

— I want to buy something used.

قال الطالب: أريد شراء شيء مستعمل لتوفير المال.

هذه السيارة مستعملة.

— This car is used.

أشار البائع إلى السيارة وقال: هذه السيارة مستعملة.

كل شيء مستعمل هنا.

— Everything here is used.

في سوق السلع المستعملة، تسمع غالباً: كل شيء مستعمل هنا.

بكم هذا المستعمل؟

— How much is this used one?

سأل الزبون: بكم هذا المستعمل؟ مشيراً إلى جهاز إلكتروني.

أفضل المستعمل على الجديد.

— I prefer used over new.

قال أحد المشترين: أفضل المستعمل على الجديد لأنه أرخص.

هذا مستعمل ولكنه بحالة جيدة.

— This is used but in good condition.

أوضح البائع: هذا مستعمل ولكنه بحالة جيدة جداً.

لا أريد شيئاً مستعملاً.

— I don't want anything used.

ردت العميلة بوضوح: لا أريد شيئاً مستعملاً، أريده جديداً.

هل يوجد شيء مستعمل أرخص؟

— Is there something used that is cheaper?

استفسر الزائر: هل يوجد شيء مستعمل أرخص من هذا؟

هذا مستعمل، لكنه يعمل.

— This is used, but it works.

قال المصلح: هذا مستعمل، لكنه يعمل بشكل جيد.

Se confunde a menudo con

مستعمل vs جديد

'جديد' means 'new'. It's the direct opposite of مستعمل. Ensure you use the correct term based on whether the item is brand new or has been used.

مستعمل vs قديم

'قديم' means 'old'. While many used items are old, an item can be old but unused, or new but old stock. مستعمل specifically refers to prior usage.

مستعمل vs مُصلح / مُجدد

'مُصلح' (repaired) or 'مُجدد' (refurbished) implies an item has been fixed or updated. It might have been مستعمل before repair, but the focus is on its restored state.

Fácil de confundir

مستعمل vs قديم

Both refer to items that are not new.

<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> specifically means 'used' or 'second-hand', focusing on prior ownership and use. 'قديم' means 'old' and focuses on age. An item can be old but unused, or used but not necessarily very old.

كتاب مستعمل (used book) vs كتاب قديم (old book). The used book might be recent, while the old book might have been kept in pristine condition.

مستعمل vs جديد

They are antonyms, describing the state of an item.

<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> means 'used' or 'second-hand'. 'جديد' means 'new' or 'brand new'. It's crucial to use the correct one to avoid miscommunication about the item's condition and price.

سيارة مستعملة (used car) vs سيارة جديدة (new car).

مستعمل vs بالٍ

Both imply a state of non-newness and wear.

<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> is a neutral term for 'used'. 'بالٍ' implies 'worn out', 'dilapidated', or 'threadbare', carrying a negative connotation of significant wear and tear.

قميص مستعمل (used shirt) could be in good condition, while a قميص بالٍ (worn-out shirt) would have holes or be faded significantly.

مستعمل vs مُصلح

Items that are 'مُصلح' (repaired) were likely 'مستعمل' (used) beforehand.

'مُصلح' means 'repaired' or 'fixed'. It focuses on the fact that the item was broken and has been mended. An item can be <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> without needing repair, or it can be repaired after being <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark>. The term 'مُصلح' describes its current state after intervention.

اشتريت هاتفاً مستعملاً، ثم قمت بإصلاحه. (I bought a used phone, then I repaired it.) The repaired phone is now 'هاتف مُصلح'.

مستعمل vs مُجدد

Similar to 'مُصلح', 'مُجدد' (refurbished) implies an item has been worked on.

'مُجدد' means 'refurbished' or 'renovated'. It suggests an item has been restored to a near-new condition, often with updated parts or a fresh finish. While it implies prior use, the emphasis is on its renewed state, often sold with a warranty.

اشتريت جهاز كمبيوتر مجدداً بسعر أقل. (I bought a refurbished computer at a lower price.) This is different from just buying a 'جهاز كمبيوتر مستعمل' (used computer).

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Noun (indefinite) + مستعمل/مستعملة

اشتريت كتاباً مستعملاً.

A1

هذا/هذه + Noun (definite) + مستعمل/مستعملة

هذه سيارة مستعملة.

A2

Verb + Noun (indefinite) + مستعمل/مستعملة

أريد شراء هاتف مستعمل.

A2

هل + Noun (definite) + مستعمل/مستعملة؟

هل الأثاث مستعمل؟

B1

Noun (plural inanimate) + مستعملة

نبيع أجهزة مستعملة.

B1

Noun (definite) + مستعمل/مستعملة + Prepositional Phrase

المنزل المستعمل في شارع النيل.

B2

Adverb + مستعمل/مستعملة (as part of a larger description)

هذه الآلة مستعملة كثيراً ولكنها تعمل.

C1

Gerund/Infinitive + Noun + مستعمل/مستعملة

شراء بضائع مستعملة يساعد البيئة.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

استعمال Use, usage, utilization
مُستخدِم User

Verbos

استعمل To use, to employ

Adjetivos

مستعمل Used, second-hand
مستعملة Used, second-hand (feminine)

Relacionado

جديد New (antonym)
قديم Old
بالٍ Worn out
مُصلح Repaired, refurbished
مُجدد Renewed, renovated

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High, especially in contexts related to commerce and personal belongings.

Errores comunes
  • Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> for feminine nouns. Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعملة</mark> for feminine nouns.

    Arabic adjectives must agree in gender with the nouns they modify. Forgetting to add the 'ta marbuta' (ة) for feminine nouns is a common error. Example: Incorrect: 'سيارة مستعمل'. Correct: 'سيارة مستعملة'.

  • Equating <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> with 'broken' or 'bad condition'. Understanding <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> as a neutral term for 'used'.

    <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> simply means 'previously owned or used'. An item can be used but still in excellent condition. Words like 'بالٍ' (worn out) or 'متهالك' (dilapidated) are used for items in poor condition.

  • Using the masculine form <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> for plural inanimate objects. Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعملة</mark> for plural inanimate objects.

    While <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> itself is masculine, for inanimate plurals, the feminine singular form <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعملة</mark> is very common. Example: 'كتب مستعملة' (used books), not 'كتب مستعملون' or 'كتب مستعملات'.

  • Confusing <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> with 'old' (<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>قديم</mark>) when the focus is specifically on usage. Using <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> when prior use is the key descriptor.

    'قديم' refers to age, while <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> refers to usage. An item can be old but unused, or new but old stock. Use <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>مستعمل</mark> when the fact of prior use is important.

  • Not applying the definite article correctly when the noun is definite. Using 'المستعمل' or 'المستعملة' when the noun is definite.

    If the noun has the definite article 'ال', the adjective should also take the definite article. Example: 'الكتاب المستعمل' (the used book), not 'الكتاب مستعمل'.

Consejos

Gender Agreement is Key

Always remember to adjust مستعمل for the gender of the noun. Use مستعملة for feminine nouns like 'سيارة' (car) or 'طاولة' (table).

Think 'Used' or 'Second-Hand'

When you encounter مستعمل, immediately associate it with the English concepts of 'used' or 'second-hand'. This will help you understand its context.

Common in Commerce

This word is highly frequent in commercial contexts, especially when buying or selling items that are not brand new. Be prepared to see and use it often when shopping.

Stress on the Middle Syllable

Remember that the stress in مستعمل (mustaʿmal) falls on the second syllable: mus-TA-mal. This helps with clear pronunciation.

Cultural Relevance

Buying used items is common and accepted in many Arabic-speaking cultures. مستعمل is a neutral and practical term in these contexts.

Opposite of 'New'

The most common contrast is with 'جديد' (jadīd - new). Understanding this pair is fundamental for describing items.

Plural Forms for Inanimate Objects

For plural inanimate nouns, the feminine singular form مستعملة is frequently used. For example, 'كتب مستعملة' (used books).

Sound Association

Connect the sound 'mustaʿmal' to the English word 'musty' to remember it relates to older, used items. Visualize a dusty, musty object.

Neutral Term

مستعمل is neutral. It doesn't necessarily mean 'broken' or 'of poor quality', just that it has been used.

Describe Your Belongings

Practice by describing items in your environment. Are they new or used? Use مستعمل correctly for those that are not brand new.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'musty' smell often associated with old, used items. 'Musty' sounds a bit like 'mustaʿmal'. So, 'musty' = مستعمل.

Asociación visual

Imagine a dusty old shop filled with pre-owned furniture. Picture a sign on one of the items that clearly says مستعمل.

Word Web

Used Second-hand Pre-owned Not new Cars Furniture Electronics Old items

Desafío

Try to describe five items in your home that are مستعمل (or مستعملة). For example, 'My chair is used' (كرسيي مستعمل).

Origen de la palabra

The word مستعمل comes from the Arabic root ع-م-ل (ʿ-m-l), which relates to 'work' or 'doing'. The form VIII verb 'استعمل' (istaʿmala) means 'to use' or 'to employ'. مستعمل is the passive participle of this verb.

Significado original: The original meaning relates to something that has been 'worked upon' or 'employed' by someone.

Semitic

Contexto cultural

The term itself is neutral. However, the context of purchasing مستعمل items can be sensitive depending on socio-economic status. It's generally viewed positively as a smart financial choice or an environmentally conscious one.

In English-speaking countries, 'used' and 'second-hand' are the direct equivalents. The perception can sometimes be more negative than in Arabic-speaking regions, though this is changing with the rise of sustainable consumption.

Online marketplaces like OLX or Dubizzle are filled with listings for 'مستعمل' items. Second-hand car dealerships are ubiquitous, always advertising 'سيارات مستعملة'. Thrift stores and consignment shops often use the term to describe their inventory.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Buying a car

  • سيارة مستعملة
  • كم سعر هذه السيارة المستعملة؟
  • هل السيارة مستعملة؟
  • أبحث عن سيارة مستعملة.

Shopping for furniture

  • أثاث مستعمل
  • هل هذا الأثاث مستعمل؟
  • أريد شراء طاولة مستعملة.
  • هذه الأرائك مستعملة.

Online marketplaces

  • للبيع: هاتف مستعمل
  • أجهزة مستعملة بحالة جيدة
  • ملابس مستعملة
  • كتب مستعملة للبيع

Second-hand shops/Thrift stores

  • كل شيء مستعمل هنا
  • هل لديكم ملابس مستعملة؟
  • هذا قميص مستعمل.
  • أسعار جيدة للأشياء المستعملة.

Discussing possessions

  • هاتفي مستعمل.
  • كرسيي مستعمل.
  • هل هاتفك مستعمل؟
  • أفضل شراء المستعمل.

Inicios de conversación

"What kind of used items are most popular in your country?"

"Do you prefer buying new or used items, and why?"

"Have you ever bought something used that turned out to be a great deal?"

"What's the strangest used item you've ever seen for sale?"

"How important is the condition of a used item to you?"

Temas para diario

Describe a time you bought something used. What was it, and why did you choose a used item?

Imagine you are opening a second-hand shop. What kind of items would you sell, and what would you call your shop?

Write a short dialogue between a buyer and seller discussing a used car.

Reflect on the environmental impact of buying used items. How does it compare to buying new?

If you could sell any item from your home that you no longer need, what would it be, and how would you describe it as 'used'?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

The most direct English translations are 'used' and 'second-hand'. It describes anything that is not new and has had previous ownership or use.

To make it feminine, you add the 'ta marbuta' (ة) at the end, making it مستعملة (mustaʿmalah). This is used when describing feminine nouns, like 'سيارة مستعملة' (a used car).

The direct opposite is 'جديد' (jadīd), which means 'new' or 'brand new'. So, you'll often see items described as either 'جديد' or 'مستعمل'.

Yes, for inanimate plural nouns, it is very common to use the feminine singular form مستعملة. For example, 'كتب مستعملة' (used books) or 'أجهزة مستعملة' (used devices).

No, مستعمل is a neutral term. It simply means the item has been used before. Its quality can range from excellent to poor, depending on the item and its history. Words like 'بالٍ' (worn out) or 'متهالك' (dilapidated) imply poor quality.

You'll frequently encounter it in advertisements for second-hand goods, such as online marketplaces, car dealerships, furniture stores, and even in classified ads. It's a very common word in everyday commerce.

Yes. مستعمل just means 'used'. 'مُجدد' (mujaddad) means 'refurbished' or 'renovated'. A refurbished item has typically been repaired and restored to a near-new condition, often sold with a warranty, while a 'مستعمل' item is sold as-is.

For inanimate objects, the common way is to use the feminine singular form of the adjective with the plural noun: 'أشياء مستعملة' (used things), 'أدوات مستعملة' (used tools), or 'بضائع مستعملة' (used goods).

While primarily used for physical objects, it can be used metaphorically for abstract concepts, like 'أفكار مستعملة' (used ideas) meaning ideas that have been around for a long time and are perhaps unoriginal. However, this is less common at beginner levels.

The verb is 'استعمل' (istaʿmala), which means 'to use' or 'to employ'. مستعمل is the passive participle of this verb, meaning 'that which has been used'.

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