At the A1 CEFR level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic Arabic. The concept of 'prophesying' or 'divine prediction' is far too advanced. Their focus is on survival phrases, greetings, and identifying very common objects and actions. They would not encounter or need 'تنبأ' at this stage.
A2 learners can handle simple, everyday conversations and understand sentences related to familiar topics. While they might encounter the root concept of 'news' or 'information' (نبأ), the specific verb 'تنبأ' with its implication of divine prophecy is beyond their current scope. They would be learning basic verbs for daily activities and descriptions.
At the B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. They can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. The concept of 'تنبأ' starts to become relevant here, especially in texts related to religion, history, or moral stories. Learners at this stage can begin to differentiate it from more general prediction verbs like 'توقع'. They can understand its meaning in context and use it in simple sentences, particularly if the context is clearly defined.
B2 learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible. 'تنبأ' is well within their grasp, and they can use it accurately in discussions involving religious, historical, or philosophical themes. They can also appreciate its nuances compared to other prediction verbs.
C1 learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. 'تنبأ' is a word they would understand and use with precision, appreciating its specific connotations of divine foresight and prophecy. They can analyze texts where it appears and discuss its cultural and religious significance.
C2 learners have a level of mastery that allows them to understand virtually everything heard or read with ease. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. For C2 learners, 'تنبأ' is a familiar term, and they can use it in nuanced discussions, academic contexts, and literary analysis, understanding its full semantic range and historical/religious weight.

تنبأ en 30 segundos

  • To foretell future events, often with divine insight.
  • Implies supernatural knowledge or prophecy.
  • Used for predictions beyond normal human understanding.
  • Conveys a sense of spiritual foresight.
Root Meaning
The root of 'تنبأ' is related to 'نبأ' (nab'a), which means news or information, often significant news. The verb form suggests bringing forth or revealing this significant news, particularly about the future.
Divine Connection
The primary distinction of 'تنبأ' is its association with divine or supernatural knowledge. When someone 'يَتَنَبَّأ' (yatanabba'a), they are not simply guessing or forecasting based on trends; they are believed to be receiving information from a higher power. This is why it's often translated as 'prophesy' or 'predict divinely'.
Contexts of Use
This word is most commonly found in religious texts, historical accounts of prophets and seers, and discussions about spiritual matters. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who has an uncanny ability to predict future events, though the divine aspect is usually implied. For example, a religious leader might 'تنبأ' about a coming judgment, or a wise elder might 'تنبأ' about a societal shift.
Distinction from Regular Prediction
It's crucial to differentiate 'تنبأ' from verbs like 'توقع' (tawaqqa'a), which means to expect or forecast based on probabilities or analysis. 'تنبأ' carries a weight of certainty and divine authority that 'توقع' does not.

The prophets of old would often تنبأ about the future of their people.

In ancient times, people sought those who could تنبأ for guidance.

Some spiritual leaders claim to تنبأ through divine inspiration.

Verb Conjugation
'تنبأ' is a Form VIII verb (افتعل - ifta'ala). Its present tense conjugation for 'he' is 'يَتَنَبَّأ' (yatanabba'a). For example, 'هو يَتَنَبَّأ' (huwa yatanabba'a) - He prophesies.
With Prepositions
It is often followed by the preposition 'بـ' (bi) to indicate what is being predicted. For instance, 'تنبأ بالمستقبل' (tanabba'a bil-mustaqbal) - He prophesied about the future.
Expressing Divine Source
Sentences often imply the source of the prediction. 'تنبأ النبي' (tanabba'a an-nabiyy) - The prophet prophesied. 'تنبأ الرجل الصالح' (tanabba'a ar-rajul as-salih) - The righteous man prophesied.
Future Predictions
It can be used to describe predictions of specific events. 'تنبأ بحدوث زلزال' (tanabba'a bi-huduth zalzal) - He prophesied an earthquake would occur.
Past Tense Usage
In historical or narrative contexts, the past tense is common. 'لقد تنبأ لهم بالخير' (laqad tanabba'a lahum bil-khayr) - He had prophesied good for them.

The ancient texts describe how the seer would تنبأ about the coming drought.

It is said that the wise man could تنبأ by observing the stars.

Many religious scholars interpret scriptures to understand what was تنبأ by earlier prophets.

Religious Discourse
The most frequent context is religious sermons, lectures, and interpretations of holy texts. Discussions about prophets, divine signs, and eschatology (the study of end times) are rich with this vocabulary.
Historical Narratives
When recounting historical events, especially those involving religious figures or ancient civilizations, 'تنبأ' appears when describing prophetic pronouncements made by individuals believed to have divine connections.
Spiritual and Mystical Literature
Books and articles exploring spirituality, mysticism, or esoteric knowledge might use 'تنبأ' to describe visions or insights that predict future events.
Figurative Language
Occasionally, it can be used metaphorically in more literary contexts to describe someone with an exceptional, almost supernatural, ability to foresee outcomes, though this is less common and the divine aspect is often downplayed or absent.
Academic Study of Religion
Scholars studying comparative religion, biblical studies, or Islamic theology will encounter this term frequently when analyzing prophetic traditions.

The imam used the word تنبأ when discussing the signs of the end times.

Historical accounts often mention figures who claimed to تنبأ about major events.

In a lecture on ancient prophecies, the professor explained what it meant to تنبأ.

Confusing with 'توقع' (tawaqqa'a)
The most common mistake is using 'تنبأ' for general predictions or expectations. 'توقع' means to expect or forecast based on logical analysis, trends, or probabilities. 'تنبأ' implies a divine or supernatural source, making it unsuitable for predicting the weather or stock prices.
Overuse in Secular Contexts
Learners might overuse 'تنبأ' in secular conversations because it sounds like a strong prediction. However, its spiritual connotation makes it inappropriate for everyday predictions. For instance, saying 'تنبأت بأن فريقي سيفوز' (I prophesied my team would win) sounds overly dramatic and misuses the word unless there's a specific spiritual context.
Incorrect Verb Form
As a Form VIII verb, 'تنبأ' has specific conjugation patterns. Beginners might incorrectly conjugate it or use a root form that doesn't carry the intended meaning. For example, using a Form I verb related to 'نبأ' (news) might not convey the 'divine prediction' aspect.
Ignoring the Preposition 'بـ'
While not always mandatory, 'تنبأ' is very commonly followed by the preposition 'بـ' (bi) to specify what is being prophesied. Omitting it might sound unnatural or incomplete in many contexts, such as 'تنبأ عن المستقبل' instead of 'تنبأ بالمستقبل'.
Applying to Everyday Guesses
Using 'تنبأ' for a simple guess or a very likely outcome is a mistake. If you guess that it will rain because the sky is dark, you 'تتوقع' (expect) or 'تتكهن' (speculate), you don't 'تتنبأ'. The latter implies a supernatural certainty.

Mistake: He تنبأ the stock market would go up.

Correct: He توقع the stock market would go up.

Mistake: I تنبأ it would rain today.

Correct: I توقعت it would rain today.

توقع (tawaqqa'a)
Meaning: To expect, to forecast, to anticipate. This is the most common alternative for general predictions. It's based on probabilities, evidence, or logical deduction, not divine insight. Example: 'أتوقع أن يكون الطقس حارًا غدًا' (I expect the weather to be hot tomorrow).
تكهن (takahhana)
Meaning: To guess, to speculate, to conjecture. This implies a less certain prediction, often based on intuition or limited information. It's more about educated guessing than divine revelation. Example: 'تكهن المحلل بسعر السهم' (The analyst speculated about the stock price).
استشرف (istashrafa)
Meaning: To foresee, to anticipate, to look forward to. This verb often implies a more hopeful or strategic anticipation of the future, sometimes with a visionary quality but not necessarily divine. Example: 'استشرف المستقبل الواعد' (He foresaw a promising future).
أخبر بالمستقبل (akhbara bil-mustaqbal)
Meaning: To inform about the future. This is a more descriptive phrase rather than a single verb. It can be used when someone is relaying information about the future, whether it's a prediction, a warning, or a statement of fact about what is to come. Example: 'أخبرني بالمستقبل وما سيحدث' (He informed me about the future and what will happen).
انبأ (anba'a)
Meaning: To inform, to announce, to tell. This is related to the root of 'تنبأ' but is a more general verb for conveying news. While 'انبأ' can be used for news about the future, it lacks the specific divine connotation of 'تنبأ'. Example: 'أنبأه بالنتائج' (He informed him of the results).

I توقعت the train would be late, but I didn't تنبأ by divine command.

The fortune teller تكهن about my future, but it wasn't a divine prophecy.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The root ن-ب-أ (n-b-ʾ) is fundamental to the concept of prophethood in Abrahamic religions. The word 'نبي' (nabī), meaning prophet, is directly related to this root, signifying someone who brings divine news or messages. Thus, 'تنبأ' is intrinsically linked to the role and function of a prophet.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /tanab.ba.ʔa/
US /təˈnɑːb.bɑː/
The stress typically falls on the second syllable: ta-NAB-ba-a.
Rima con
تبا عصا رضا أتى رأى دعا قضا سما
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the glottal stop ('ء') too softly or omitting it entirely.
  • Incorrectly stressing the word, often placing emphasis on the first syllable.
  • Not differentiating the double 'b' sound, which is important in Arabic morphology.
  • Mispronouncing the vowel sounds, especially the final 'a'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

At B1 level, learners can encounter 'تنبأ' in religious texts, historical accounts, or simple narratives. Understanding its specific meaning requires recognizing the context of divine or supernatural prediction, distinguishing it from general forecasts. The verb form (Form VIII) might also pose a slight challenge.

Escritura 3/5

Using 'تنبأ' accurately in writing at B1 requires careful consideration of context to ensure the divine or supernatural element is present. Beginners might confuse it with 'توقع' or 'تكهن', so practice in differentiating these is key.

Expresión oral 3/5

Using 'تنبأ' in spoken Arabic at B1 is appropriate in specific contexts like discussing religious stories or historical figures. Spontaneous use in everyday conversation is unlikely and might sound unnatural unless the context is clearly defined.

Escucha 3/5

Learners at B1 should be able to recognize 'تنبأ' when heard in contexts related to prophecy or divine pronouncements. The pronunciation and grammatical structure are key to identification.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

نبي (prophet) مستقبل (future) خبر (news) توقع (to expect/forecast) علم (knowledge)

Aprende después

وحي (revelation) قدر (destiny/fate) غيب (unseen/supernatural) كاهن (soothsayer/priest) رؤيا (vision)

Avanzado

إلهام (inspiration) قضاء (divine decree) علم الغيب (knowledge of the unseen) سحر (magic/sorcery - often contrasted with prophecy) فأل (omen)

Gramática que debes saber

Form VIII verbs (افتعل) often imply taking on an action or quality, or an action directed towards oneself. For 'تنبأ' from ن-ب-أ (news), it means to actively bring forth or announce news, specifically about the future.

The root ن-ب-أ means 'news'. The Form VIII verb 'تنبأ' implies actively bringing forth this news, especially about the future, often divinely.

The preposition 'بـ' (bi) is frequently used with 'تنبأ' to indicate the object or content of the prophecy.

تنبأ النبي بالمجاعة. (The prophet prophesied about the famine.)

The subjunctive mood after particles like 'أن' (an) or 'لـ' (li) is common when expressing the possibility or desire to prophesy.

نريد أن نتنبأ بالمستقبل. (We want to prophesy about the future.)

The past tense of 'تنبأ' is 'تَنَبَّأَ' (tanabba'a) for masculine singular, and 'تَنَبَّأَتْ' (tanabba'at) for feminine singular.

هو تنبأ. هي تنبأت.

The present tense 'يَتَنَبَّأُ' (yatanabba'u) for masculine singular, and 'تَتَنَبَّأُ' (tatanabba'u) for feminine singular.

هو يتنبأ. هي تتنبأ.

Ejemplos por nivel

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1

تنبأ النبي بالمجاعة القادمة.

The prophet prophesied the coming famine.

'تنبأ' is in the past tense. 'بالمجاعة' uses the preposition 'بـ' to indicate what was prophesied.

2

استطاع الحكيم أن يتنبأ بالمستقبل.

The wise man could prophesy about the future.

'أن يتنبأ' is the subjunctive form after 'أن'. 'بالمستقبل' indicates the subject of the prophecy.

3

في القصص القديمة، كان الناس يذهبون لمن يتنبأ.

In old stories, people used to go to those who prophesied.

'يتنبأ' is in the present tense, implying a general ability. The context ('في القصص القديمة') clarifies the time.

4

هل يمكن أن تتنبأ بما سيحدث؟

Can you prophesy what will happen?

'تتنبأ' is the present tense for 'you' (singular masculine).

5

تنبأ الكاهن بانتصارهم.

The soothsayer prophesied their victory.

'الكاهن' (the soothsayer) is the subject. 'بانتصارهم' (their victory) is the object of the prophecy.

6

هذه الرؤيا تجعلني أتنبأ بالخير.

This vision makes me prophesy good things.

'أتنبأ' is the first-person present tense. The phrase 'تجعلني' (makes me) introduces the action.

7

كانت لديه القدرة على أن يتنبأ.

He had the ability to prophesy.

'أن يتنبأ' follows 'القدرة على' (the ability to).

8

لا أحد يستطيع أن يتنبأ بما يخبئه القدر.

No one can prophesy what fate holds.

'أن يتنبأ' is used after 'يستطيع' (can). 'بما يخبئه القدر' specifies what fate holds.

1

تنبأ بظهور حضارة جديدة بعد قرون.

He prophesied the emergence of a new civilization after centuries.

This sentence uses 'تنبأ' in a grand historical context, implying a significant and divinely inspired foretelling.

2

كانت نبوءاته تتنبأ بحدوث تغييرات جذرية.

His prophecies foretold radical changes.

'تنبأ' is used here in relation to existing prophecies, reinforcing the concept of foretelling.

3

في بعض الثقافات، يُعتقد أن الشيوخ يمكنهم أن يتنبأوا.

In some cultures, elders are believed to be able to prophesy.

This highlights cultural beliefs surrounding the act of prophesying.

4

لم يكن يتنبأ بالنتائج بدقة، بل كان يفسر الإشارات.

He wasn't predicting the outcomes precisely; rather, he was interpreting the signs.

This sentence contrasts 'تنبأ' with precise prediction, suggesting interpretation of signs as the method.

5

تنبأت النصوص القديمة بقدوم رسول.

Ancient texts prophesied the arrival of a messenger.

'تنبأت' (feminine past tense) refers to the texts themselves conveying the prophecy.

6

هل تعتقد أن البشر يمكنهم حقًا أن يتنبأوا؟

Do you think humans can truly prophesy?

This is a philosophical question about the nature of prophecy and human capability.

7

كانت هناك علامات تنبأ بحدوث كارثة.

There were signs that prophesied a disaster.

'تنبأ' is used here for signs, personifying them as foretelling the disaster.

8

كانت مهمته أن يتنبأ بالخير لشعبه.

His mission was to prophesy good for his people.

This emphasizes the purpose or mission associated with prophesying.

1

تنبأ النبي بقرب قيام الساعة.

The Prophet foretold the imminent approach of the Hour (of Judgment).

This is a specific theological statement, using 'تنبأ' in its most profound religious context.

2

كانت رؤاه تتنبأ بعواقب وخيمة للحرب.

His visions foretold dire consequences of the war.

'تنبأ' is linked to 'رؤاه' (his visions), highlighting the source of the prophecy.

3

لم يكن الأمر مجرد توقع، بل كان يتنبأ بإلهام سماوي.

It wasn't merely an expectation; rather, he prophesied with heavenly inspiration.

This sentence explicitly differentiates 'تنبأ' from 'توقع' and emphasizes divine inspiration.

4

تنبأ المنجمون بانهيار الإمبراطورية.

The astrologers prophesied the empire's collapse.

This uses 'تنبأ' in the context of astrology, a practice often associated with foretelling.

5

كانت كلماته تتنبأ بتغيير قادم في مسار التاريخ.

His words foretold a coming change in the course of history.

This sentence elevates the act of prophesying to influencing the grand narrative of history.

6

من الصعب أن تتنبأ بما ستؤول إليه الأمور في ظل هذه الظروف.

It is difficult to prophesy what things will turn out to be under these circumstances.

Here, 'تنبأ' is used in a context of extreme uncertainty, implying that even divine foresight would struggle.

7

تنبأ الفيلسوف بتحولات جوهرية في الفكر الإنساني.

The philosopher prophesied fundamental shifts in human thought.

This applies 'تنبأ' to intellectual and philosophical predictions, suggesting profound insights.

8

كانت هناك روايات تفيد بأنها تستطيع أن تتنبأ.

There were accounts suggesting she could prophesy.

This focuses on the reporting or belief in someone's ability to prophesy.

1

كانت تعاليم الأنبياء تتنبأ بمستقبل مشرق للأتقياء.

The teachings of the prophets foretold a bright future for the pious.

This sentence uses 'تنبأ' in a theological context, referring to the core message of prophetic teachings.

2

تنبأ الإمام بوقوع الفتنة قبل حدوثها بسنوات.

The Imam prophesied the occurrence of the sedition years before it happened.

This highlights the accuracy and foresight associated with a significant religious figure's prophecy.

3

لا يمكن للفكر الوضعي أن يتنبأ بما وراء الطبيعة.

Positivist thought cannot prophesy what lies beyond nature.

This sentence contrasts empirical/positivist approaches with the domain of prophecy, highlighting the limits of secular reasoning.

4

تنبأت الأساطير القديمة بظهور بطل منقذ.

Ancient myths foretold the appearance of a savior hero.

'تنبأت' here refers to the narrative content of myths, implying a deeply ingrained cultural prophecy.

5

كانت لديه قدرة فريدة على أن يتنبأ بالنتائج العاطفية للأحداث.

He had a unique ability to prophesy the emotional outcomes of events.

This extends the concept of prophecy to emotional and psychological predictions, suggesting a profound empathy or insight.

6

إن محاولة أن تتنبأ بنوايا خصمك دون فهم عميق هي ضرب من التهور.

Attempting to prophesy your opponent's intentions without deep understanding is a form of recklessness.

This uses 'تنبأ' metaphorically in a strategic context, implying an attempt at foresight without adequate knowledge.

7

تنبأ الشعراء بانهيار القيم الأخلاقية.

The poets prophesied the collapse of moral values.

This assigns the role of prophecy to poets, suggesting their role in foreseeing societal decline.

8

في سياق ديني، فإن 'تنبأ' لا يعني مجرد التخمين، بل هو إعلام إلهي.

In a religious context, 'to prophesy' does not mean mere guessing, but divine communication.

This is a meta-commentary on the term itself, defining its precise meaning within a religious framework.

Colocaciones comunes

تنبأ بالمستقبل
تنبأ بحدوث
تنبأ بالخير
تنبأ بالشر
تنبأ بظهور
تنبأ بأن
الأنبياء تنبأوا
النص تنبأ
قدرة على التنبؤ
وحي يتنبأ

Frases Comunes

تنبأ بالمستقبل

— To prophesy about the future. This is the most direct and common use of the verb.

كان الناس يخشون أن يتنبأ لهم الكهنة بالمستقبل.

تنبأ بحدوث شيء

— To predict that something will happen. This phrase is used to specify the event being foretold.

تنبأ النبي بحدوث مجاعة شديدة.

تنبأ بالخير/بالشر

— To prophesy good or evil. This indicates the nature of the prediction, whether positive or negative.

كانت كلماته تتنبأ بالخير.

أن يتنبأ

— To be able to prophesy. This phrase often follows verbs indicating ability or possibility.

هل يمكن للإنسان أن يتنبأ؟

تنبأ بأن

— To prophesy that (followed by a clause). This structure is used when the prediction is a full sentence or idea.

تنبأ بأن الحرب ستكون طويلة.

تنبأ في رؤياه

— To prophesy in his vision. This specifies the context or source of the prophecy.

تنبأ في رؤياه بانتصاره.

تنبأ من خلال

— To prophesy through/by means of. This indicates the channel through which the prophecy is received.

تنبأ من خلال النجوم.

تنبأ بالحق

— To prophesy the truth. This emphasizes the accuracy and divine nature of the prophecy.

تنبأ بالحق ولم يخطئ.

تنبأ بآيات

— To prophesy signs. This refers to foretelling specific omens or indications.

تنبأ بآيات الساعة.

من يتنبأ

— One who prophesies. This refers to the person who possesses the ability to prophesy.

من يتنبأ غالباً ما يكون له مكانة خاصة.

Se confunde a menudo con

تنبأ vs توقع (tawaqqa'a)

'توقع' means to expect or forecast based on logic, evidence, or probability. 'تنبأ' implies divine or supernatural insight. Using 'تنبأ' for a weather forecast would be incorrect.

تنبأ vs تكهن (takahhana)

'تكهن' means to guess or speculate, often with less certainty than 'توقع'. It doesn't carry the divine weight of 'تنبأ'.

تنبأ vs انبأ (anba'a)

'انبأ' means to inform or announce. While it can be used for news about the future, it lacks the specific connotation of divine prediction found in 'تنبأ'.

Modismos y expresiones

"تنبأ بالحصى"

— Literally 'to prophesy with pebbles'. This idiom refers to making predictions based on very little or unreliable information, akin to fortune-telling with simple objects. It often carries a slightly dismissive tone.

هو لا يتنبأ بالحصى، بل لديه فهم عميق للأمور.

Informal/Figurative
"تنبأ بالغيب"

— To prophesy the unseen/the unknown. This phrase emphasizes the supernatural or divinely revealed nature of the prediction, as it concerns matters beyond human knowledge.

فقط الله يعلم الغيب، ولكن الأنبياء يتنبأون بالغيب بإذنه.

Formal/Religious
"تنبأ بلسان حال"

— To prophesy through the 'tongue of state' or 'through the voice of circumstances'. This means to predict an outcome based on the current situation or the implicit message of events, as if the circumstances themselves are speaking.

انهيار السوق يتنبأ بلسان حال بأزمة اقتصادية قادمة.

Figurative/Formal
"تنبأ بقلم القدر"

— To prophesy by the 'pen of destiny'. This implies that the events are predetermined and the prophecy is merely revealing what is already written by fate.

يبدو أن كل ما يحدث يتنبأ بقلم القدر.

Figurative/Literary
"تنبأ بريح"

— To prophesy by wind. This idiom suggests making a prediction based on subtle signs or changes in the atmosphere, much like predicting weather shifts.

تغير المزاج العام يتنبأ بريح سياسي قادم.

Figurative/Informal
"تنبأ بما سيأتي"

— To prophesy what is to come. A straightforward idiomatic expression for foretelling future events.

كانت كلماته تنبأ بما سيأتي من خير وشر.

Neutral
"تنبأ بلمحة بصر"

— To prophesy in the blink of an eye. This implies an instantaneous and uncanny ability to foresee something.

بمجرد النظر إليه، بدا أنه يتنبأ بلمحة بصر.

Figurative/Informal
"تنبأ بما هو مخفي"

— To prophesy what is hidden. This refers to revealing secrets or outcomes that are not apparent to others.

كانت لديه قدرة على أن يتنبأ بما هو مخفي.

Figurative/Neutral
"تنبأ بالظواهر"

— To prophesy phenomena. This refers to foretelling natural or unusual occurrences.

تنبأ بالظواهر الفلكية غير المعتادة.

Formal/Scientific
"تنبأ بالمنامات"

— To prophesy through dreams. This is a specific method of divine communication or foresight.

كان يتنبأ بالمنامات التي يراها.

Religious/Cultural

Fácil de confundir

تنبأ vs توقع

Both relate to future events.

'توقع' is based on logic, evidence, or probability. 'تنبأ' implies divine or supernatural knowledge. For example, you 'تتوقع' rain based on clouds, but a prophet might 'يتنبأ' about a drought.

أتوقع أن يصل القطار متأخراً. (I expect the train to be late.) vs. تنبأ النبي بالمجاعة. (The prophet prophesied the famine.)

تنبأ vs تكهن

Both involve making statements about the future.

'تكهن' is more like guessing or speculating, often with uncertainty. 'تنبأ' suggests a divinely revealed certainty or prophecy.

تكهن المحلل بأن السوق سيرتفع. (The analyst speculated the market would rise.) vs. تنبأ الحكيم بانتصار أمته. (The wise man prophesied his nation's victory.)

تنبأ vs انبأ

Both relate to conveying information.

'انبأ' is a general verb for informing or announcing. 'تنبأ' specifically refers to announcing future events, usually with divine insight.

أنبأه بالنتائج. (He informed him of the results.) vs. تنبأ له بالنتائج السعيدة. (He prophesied happy outcomes for him.)

تنبأ vs نبي

Directly related to the root of 'تنبأ'.

'نبي' (nabī) is the noun for 'prophet', the person who 'تنبأ'. 'تنبأ' is the verb, the action of prophesying.

النبي يتنبأ. (The prophet prophesies.)

تنبأ vs تنبؤ

Both are derived from the same root and relate to future predictions.

'تنبؤ' (tanabbu') is the noun meaning 'prophecy' or 'prediction'. 'تنبأ' (tanabba'a) is the verb meaning 'to prophesy'.

هذا تنبؤ خطير. (This is a dangerous prophecy.) vs. هو يتنبأ بهذا. (He prophesies this.)

Patrones de oraciones

B1

Subject + تنبأ (past) + بـ + Noun

النبي تنبأ بالمجاعة.

B1

Subject + يَتَنَبَّأ (present) + بـ + Noun

المنجم يتنبأ بالحظ.

B1

Subject + تنبأ + بأن + Clause

تنبأ بأن الطقس سيتحسن.

B2

كان + Subject + يَتَنَبَّأ + بـ + Noun

كان الكهنة يتنبأون بالمستقبل.

B2

Subject + لديه القدرة على + أن يتنبأ

لديه القدرة على أن يتنبأ بالأحداث.

C1

Subject + تنبأ + في + Noun (context)

تنبأ في رؤياه بانتصار.

C1

Subject + تنبأ + من خلال + Noun (method)

تنبأ من خلال النجوم.

C2

Subjunctive Clause + Subject + تنبأ

من الصعب أن تتنبأ بما سيحدث.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

تنبؤ prophecy, prediction
منبئ one who prophesies, prophet
منبأة place of prophecy, prophetic site

Verbos

تنبأ to prophesy, to predict divinely

Adjetivos

متنبئ prophetic, one who prophesies (participle)

Relacionado

نَبَأ news, information (often significant)
نبي prophet
أنبأ to inform, to announce
منبئ prophet, seer
نبؤة prophecy (less common than تنبؤ)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Moderate, but highly concentrated in specific domains (religious, historical).

Errores comunes
  • Using 'تنبأ' for everyday predictions like weather or sports. Use 'توقع' (to expect/forecast) or 'تكهن' (to guess/speculate).

    'تنبأ' implies divine or supernatural knowledge. For example, you 'تتوقع' rain based on clouds, but a prophet might 'يتنبأ' about a famine.

  • Confusing the verb 'تنبأ' with the noun 'تنبؤ'. 'تنبأ' is the verb (to prophesy); 'تنبؤ' is the noun (prophecy/prediction).

    The verb is the action, while the noun is the result or the statement of the action. For example, 'هو يتنبأ' (He prophesies), and 'هذا تنبؤ دقيق' (This is an accurate prophecy).

  • Ignoring the divine/spiritual connotation. Always consider the context for divine or supernatural insight when using 'تنبأ'.

    If a prediction is based purely on logic or observation, 'تنبأ' is not the correct word. It must imply a source beyond human reasoning.

  • Incorrect conjugation of the Form VIII verb. Master the conjugation patterns for 'تنبأ'.

    As a Form VIII verb, 'تنبأ' has specific present, past, and subjunctive forms (e.g., يتنبأ, تنبأ, أن يتنبأ). Incorrect conjugation can change the meaning or make the sentence grammatically flawed.

  • Omitting the preposition 'بـ' when it's natural. Use 'تنبأ بـ' (to prophesy about/with).

    While not always mandatory, the preposition 'بـ' is very common and often expected when specifying what is being prophesied. For example, 'تنبأ بالمستقبل' is more natural than 'تنبأ المستقبل'.

Consejos

Focus on the Divine

Remember that 'تنبأ' is strongly linked to divine or supernatural foresight. When you encounter or use this word, think of prophets, revelations, or spiritual insights, not just logical deductions.

Differentiate from 'توقع'

Always distinguish 'تنبأ' from 'توقع' (to expect/forecast). 'توقع' is rational; 'تنبأ' is spiritual or divinely inspired. This is the most critical distinction for accurate usage.

Link to 'News'

Connect 'تنبأ' to its root ن-ب-أ (news). Prophecy is essentially divine news about the future. This connection can help recall the meaning and its significance.

Respect Religious Context

The word carries significant religious weight. Use it with respect, especially in religious or theological discussions, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.

Master the 'بـ' Preposition

Pay attention to the common use of the preposition 'بـ' (bi) with 'تنبأ' to specify what is being prophesied. Practicing sentences with this structure will improve fluency.

Sound Association

Use mnemonics like 'tan-be-aware!' to remember the word. The 'aware' part signifies being informed or knowing about the future, often through a divine message.

Recognize Metaphorical Usage

While primarily religious, 'تنبأ' can sometimes be used metaphorically for uncanny foresight. However, be cautious and ensure the context supports such a figurative interpretation.

Analyze Religious Texts

Reading religious texts (like the Quran or Hadith) or historical accounts of prophets is an excellent way to see 'تنبأ' used in its most authentic and powerful contexts.

Role-Play Scenarios

Practice role-playing scenarios where someone might be speaking as a prophet or discussing prophecies. This helps in internalizing the appropriate usage.

Explore Related Terms

Learn related words like 'نبي' (prophet), 'تنبؤ' (prophecy), and 'وحي' (revelation) to build a richer understanding of the semantic field surrounding 'تنبأ'.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a 'tan' (like a tan line from the sun) where you can 'ba' (like 'be') able to 'a' (like 'ah!') see the future. So, 'Tan-ba-a' sounds like 'tan-be-ah!' - you can see the future! The 'ah!' sound comes from the final glottal stop.

Asociación visual

Picture a prophet standing on a mountaintop, looking into a swirling, mystical cloud that shows images of future events. The cloud is 'announcing' or 'bringing news' (نبأ) of what's to come, and the prophet is 'تنبأ' (tanabba'a) about it.

Word Web

Prophet Divine Future Prediction Revelation Foretell Seer News

Desafío

Try to write three sentences using 'تنبأ' in different past, present, and subjunctive forms, focusing on contexts where a divine or supernatural element is implied. For example, 'The ancient texts prophesied...' or 'He claimed to prophesy...'

Origen de la palabra

The word 'تنبأ' (tanabba'a) is derived from the Arabic root ن-ب-أ (n-b-ʾ), which relates to 'news', 'information', or 'announcement'. The Form VIII verb (افتعل - ifta'ala) often implies taking on or assuming a quality or action. In this case, it suggests someone who actively brings forth or reveals significant news, particularly news about the future, often with a divine source.

Significado original: To bring forth significant news; to announce.

Semitic languages (Arabic is a Semitic language)

Contexto cultural

The word 'تنبأ' is deeply tied to religious beliefs. When discussing it, especially in cross-cultural contexts, it's important to be respectful of different religious perspectives. Avoid using it lightly or for trivial predictions, as it carries significant spiritual weight.

In English, 'prophesy' and 'predict divinely' are the closest translations. The concept is often found in religious contexts, mythology, and literature dealing with oracles or divine pronouncements. The idea of a prophet delivering a message from God is a shared concept.

The prophecies of Nostradamus are a Western parallel, though without the explicit divine mandate in the same religious sense. Biblical prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah, whose pronouncements are recorded in the Old Testament. Islamic prophets such as Muhammad, whose revelations are central to Islam, and earlier prophets mentioned in the Quran.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Religious sermons and interpretations of scriptures.

  • تنبأ النبي بـ...
  • النص يتنبأ بـ...
  • وحي يتنبأ بـ...

Historical narratives about ancient figures and events.

  • تنبأ الحكيم بـ...
  • كانت الأساطير تتنبأ بـ...
  • تنبأ قبل وقوع الكارثة.

Discussions about fate, destiny, and the supernatural.

  • هل يمكن أن تتنبأ بالقدر؟
  • تنبأ بما سيحدث.
  • تنبأ بالغيب.

Literary works and philosophical discussions.

  • تنبأ الشاعر بـ...
  • تنبأ الفيلسوف بـ...
  • كلماته تتنبأ بتغيير.

Folklore and stories about seers or mystics.

  • تنبأ الكاهن بـ...
  • كانت تتنبأ في رؤاها.
  • تنبأ بلمحة بصر.

Inicios de conversación

"Have you ever read stories about prophets who could 'تنبأ'?"

"What's the difference between 'تنبأ' and 'توقع' in Arabic?"

"Can you think of any historical figures who were said to 'تنبأ'?"

"In religious texts, how is the act of 'تنبأ' described?"

"When might someone use the word 'تنبأ' metaphorically?"

Temas para diario

Write about a time you felt you had a strong intuition about the future, and how it relates (or doesn't relate) to the concept of 'تنبأ'.

Imagine you are a prophet. What message would you 'تنبأ' to the world today and why?

Compare and contrast the concept of prophecy ('تنبأ') with scientific prediction. What are the key differences?

Reflect on a story or movie where a character could 'تنبأ'. How did this ability affect the plot and characters?

Write a short fictional dialogue between two people discussing a prophecy. Use the word 'تنبأ' and its related terms.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

The key difference lies in the source of the prediction. 'توقع' (tawaqqa'a) means to expect or forecast based on logic, evidence, or probabilities. It's a rational prediction. 'تنبأ' (tanabba'a), on the other hand, implies a prediction that comes from divine inspiration, supernatural insight, or prophecy. It carries a spiritual weight that 'توقع' does not. For example, you 'تتوقع' the weather based on meteorological data, but a prophet might 'يتنبأ' about a natural disaster due to divine knowledge.

Generally, no. 'تنبأ' is reserved for predictions that have a divine, spiritual, or supernatural connotation. Using it for everyday forecasts like the weather, stock market, or sports results would be inappropriate and sound overly dramatic or incorrect. For such predictions, verbs like 'توقع' (to expect/forecast) or 'تكهن' (to guess/speculate) are more suitable.

The word 'تنبأ' comes from the Arabic root ن-ب-أ (n-b-ʾ), which relates to 'news' or 'information'. The Form VIII verb 'تنبأ' implies actively bringing forth or announcing significant news, particularly about the future, often with an implication of divine revelation. The word 'نبي' (nabī), meaning prophet, shares this root and signifies someone who brings divine news.

Yes, 'تنبأ' is very often followed by the preposition 'بـ' (bi) to indicate what is being predicted. For instance, 'تنبأ بالمستقبل' (he prophesied about the future) or 'تنبأ بحدوث زلزال' (he prophesied an earthquake would occur). It can also be followed by 'أن' (an) and a clause, like 'تنبأ بأن الحرب ستنتهي' (he prophesied that the war would end).

The word is most commonly used in religious contexts, such as sermons, theological discussions, and interpretations of holy texts. It's also found in historical narratives about prophets, seers, or figures believed to have divine connections. Occasionally, it might appear in literature or philosophical discourse to describe profound foresight, but its primary domain is religious and spiritual.

The noun form is 'تنبؤ' (tanabbu'), which means 'prophecy' or 'prediction'. So, a prophet makes a 'تنبؤ' (prophecy).

No, 'تنبأ' can be used for predicting both good and bad events. For example, one can 'تنبأ بالخير' (prophesy good) or 'تنبأ بالشر' (prophesy evil). The context determines the nature of the prediction.

While not direct synonyms, 'تنبأ' can be related to omens. An omen is a sign that is believed to predict future events. Someone who 'تنبأ' might interpret such signs or receive direct divine communication about future events. The concept of foretelling is common to both.

In everyday, secular conversation, it's generally not recommended. However, in literary or metaphorical contexts, one might encounter it used figuratively for someone with an uncanny, almost supernatural ability to foresee outcomes, though this is less common and may still carry connotations of something beyond ordinary understanding.

The most common mistake is confusing it with 'توقع' (to expect) or 'تكهن' (to guess) and using it for secular predictions. Another mistake is incorrect conjugation or not understanding the implication of divine insight that the word carries.

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