Signification
You cannot give what you do not possess yourself.
Contexte culturel
In the Levant, this proverb is often used with a sigh of resignation (Ya Lateef!) to express sympathy for someone who is emotionally 'dry' because of their upbringing. Egyptians often use the colloquial 'اللي معندوش ميديّش' but will switch to the formal 'فاقد الشيء لا يعطيه' in TV dramas or serious debates to add gravity. In the Gulf, it's frequently used in the context of 'Karam' (hospitality). If someone cannot host a guest properly due to poverty, this phrase is used to preserve their dignity. In North Africa, the phrase is often linked to the concept of 'Baraka' (blessing). If one doesn't have Baraka in their life, they cannot bring it to others.
Use for Empathy
Use this phrase to show you understand why someone is struggling. It makes you sound very wise and culturally attuned.
Don't be dismissive
Be careful not to use it to shut down someone's potential for growth.
Signification
You cannot give what you do not possess yourself.
Use for Empathy
Use this phrase to show you understand why someone is struggling. It makes you sound very wise and culturally attuned.
Don't be dismissive
Be careful not to use it to shut down someone's potential for growth.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
فاقد الشيء لا ______.
The verb 'yu'tih' (gives it) is the standard completion of this proverb.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'فاقد الشيء لا يعطيه'?
A teacher who doesn't know math trying to teach calculus.
The proverb perfectly describes someone trying to give knowledge they do not possess.
Choose the best response using the proverb.
أحمد: لماذا لا يبتسم المدير أبداً؟ سارة: ________.
This response uses the proverb to explain a lack of emotional expression.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Where to use 'Faqid al-shay''
Emotions
- • Love
- • Patience
- • Happiness
Skills
- • Knowledge
- • Experience
- • Leadership
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesفاقد الشيء لا ______.
The verb 'yu'tih' (gives it) is the standard completion of this proverb.
A teacher who doesn't know math trying to teach calculus.
The proverb perfectly describes someone trying to give knowledge they do not possess.
أحمد: لماذا لا يبتسم المدير أبداً؟ سارة: ________.
This response uses the proverb to explain a lack of emotional expression.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsNo, it's neutral. It simply states a logical fact about capacity, though it's often used to explain a lack of something positive.
Yes, if you are discussing leadership or the importance of training. For example: 'A manager must have vision, because فاقد الشيء لا يعطيه.'
Expressions liées
باب النجار مخلع
contrastThe carpenter's door is broken.
من شابه أباه فما ظلم
similarHe who resembles his father has done no wrong.
