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A1 noun #500 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

الوقت

Al-waqt Top 500

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces الوقت en 30 secondes

Explication الوقت in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'الوقت' (al-waqt) is one of the first nouns you learn to describe your daily routine. You will use it in very simple sentences to express that you have or don't have time for something. You might hear it in the classroom when a teacher says 'Waqt al-istiraha' (Break time) or 'Waqt al-dars' (Lesson time). At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar; just focus on the basic meaning of 'time' as it relates to your immediate needs. You will learn to pair it with 'ladayya' (I have) or 'laysa ladayya' (I don't have). It is a building block for saying 'I am busy' or 'I am free'. You will also start to recognize it in the phrase 'Kam al-waqt?' even if you primarily use 'Kam al-sa'a?'. The goal at A1 is to understand that 'الوقت' is the thing that fills your day and that you need to manage it to get things done. You will also see it on signs in public places, like 'Waqt al-iftitah' (Opening time) at a shop. It is a concrete, practical word that helps you navigate the world in Arabic.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'الوقت' with simple adjectives and prepositions. You will learn to say 'waqt tawil' (a long time) and 'waqt qasir' (a short time). You will also start using the preposition 'fi' (in) to say 'fi al-waqt' (on time). At this level, you can describe your hobbies using 'waqt al-faragh' (free time). You might say, 'In my free time, I like to read.' This allows you to provide more detail about your life. You will also encounter the plural form 'awqat' in common phrases like 'fi ba'd al-awqat' (sometimes). Your understanding of 'الوقت' shifts from just a single word to a component of useful phrases. You will also start to use verbs with it, like 'ahtaj' (I need) or 'uhib' (I like). For example, 'Ahtaj ila waqt' (I need time). This level is about expanding the context in which you use the word, moving from simple labels to functional sentences that describe your schedule and preferences in more detail.

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At the B1 level, you move into more abstract and social uses of 'الوقت'. You will start to use it in discussions about work-life balance and 'idarat al-waqt' (time management). You can now express opinions about how people use their time. You will learn more complex collocations like 'dayya'a al-waqt' (to waste time) and 'istaghalla al-waqt' (to make use of time). At this stage, you can participate in conversations about whether 'al-waqt thamin' (time is precious) and why. You will also be able to use 'الوقت' in the past and future tenses more fluently, describing how you spent your time on vacation or how you plan to spend it in the future. You will start to see 'الوقت' in more formal texts, such as news articles or short stories, where it might be used to sequence events ('at that time', 'meanwhile'). Your vocabulary will also expand to include synonyms like 'mudda' (duration) and you will begin to distinguish when to use 'waqt' versus 'mudda' in professional or academic contexts.

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At the B2 level, you can use 'الوقت' to discuss complex topics such as the impact of technology on our perception of time. You will be comfortable with idiomatic expressions like 'al-waqt kalsayf' (time is like a sword). You can use 'الوقت' in hypothetical sentences (e.g., 'If I had more time, I would have traveled more'). Your use of the word becomes more nuanced; you might use 'al-waqt al-munasib' to discuss the perfect timing for a political or social change. You will also be able to understand and use 'الوقت' in professional settings, such as discussing 'waqt al-taslim' (delivery time/deadline) in a business meeting. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are using it to argue, persuade, and describe complex temporal relationships. You will also be able to distinguish between 'waqt' and 'zaman' in literature, understanding that 'zaman' often carries a more nostalgic or grander tone. You can read longer articles where 'الوقت' is used to analyze historical trends or economic cycles.

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At the C1 level, your command of 'الوقت' and its related concepts is near-native. You can appreciate the philosophical nuances of the word in classical Arabic poetry and modern literature. You understand how 'الوقت' is used as a rhetorical device to create urgency or reflection. You can use high-level collocations like 'hadr al-waqt' (squandering time) or 'al-hayyiz al-zamani' (the time frame). You are comfortable using 'الوقت' in academic writing to define the scope of a study or the duration of a phenomenon. You can also navigate the subtle differences in meaning that occur across different Arabic dialects, knowing when 'al-waqt' might be replaced by 'al-hazz' (luck/timing) or other regional terms. At this level, you can engage in deep debates about the 'concept of time' in different cultures, using 'الوقت' as a starting point for exploring sociological and metaphysical ideas. You can also use the word in sophisticated legal or official contexts, such as 'waqt nufudh al-qanun' (the time of the law's taking effect).

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At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'الوقت' in all its forms, registers, and nuances. You can interpret the most complex uses of the word in Quranic exegesis, where 'waqt' and its roots are used to describe divine decrees and the appointed times of the universe. You can use the word with absolute precision in creative writing, using it to manipulate the reader's sense of pacing and atmosphere. You are aware of the etymological roots and how they have branched out into various technical fields like astronomy or Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh). You can effortlessly switch between the most formal academic discourse and the most idiomatic street slang involving time. Your understanding of 'الوقت' is not just linguistic but cultural and historical, allowing you to use the word in a way that resonates with the deepest values and traditions of the Arabic-speaking world. You can analyze how the word has evolved over centuries and how its usage reflects changes in Arab society's relationship with modernity and tradition.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

الوقت en 30 secondes

الوقت means 'time' in Arabic, used for specific moments and durations.
It is a masculine noun and usually takes the definite article 'al-'.
Commonly used in phrases like 'on time' (fi al-waqt) and 'free time' (waqt al-faragh).
It is more practical and specific than the abstract word 'zaman'.

The word الوقت (al-waqt) is the primary Arabic term for 'time' in a general, measurable, and specific sense. Unlike other terms that might refer to long eras or abstract eternity, al-waqt usually refers to a specific point in time, a duration, or the general concept of time as it relates to human activity and scheduling. It is derived from the root و-ق-ت (w-q-t), which carries the core meaning of defining or appointing a specific period. In daily life, this is the word you will use when asking for the time, discussing your schedule, or complaining about how fast the day is passing.

Daily Utility: It is used in almost every conversation regarding planning. Whether you are catching a bus, meeting a friend for coffee, or attending a lecture, الوقت is your go-to word. It encompasses both the abstract 'time' and the practical 'timing'.

ليس لدي الوقت الكافي لإنهاء هذا العمل اليوم.

(I do not have enough time to finish this work today.)

In a cultural context, the concept of time in the Arabic-speaking world is often viewed through the lens of social connection and religious obligation. The five daily prayers are 'mawaqit' (plural of miqat, related to waqt), meaning they are tied to specific times. Thus, the word carries a weight of discipline and divine order. When someone says 'al-waqt thamin' (time is precious), they are often referring to the limited nature of life and the importance of using every moment for something productive or spiritually fulfilling.

Grammatical Note: The word is masculine and usually takes the definite article 'al-' (the) when speaking about time in general. The plural is الأوقات (al-awqat), which you might hear in phrases like 'fi kol al-awqat' (at all times).

يمر الوقت بسرعة عندما نكون مستمتعين.

(Time passes quickly when we are having fun.)

Furthermore, al-waqt is the foundation for many compound expressions. For instance, 'al-waqt al-hadir' refers to the present time, while 'fi nafs al-waqt' means 'at the same time'. Understanding this word is essential because it acts as a grammatical anchor for adverbs of time. In modern Standard Arabic, it is used in media, literature, and formal speeches to denote periods of crisis, periods of growth, or simply the ticking clock of the news cycle. In dialects, it might be shortened or pronounced slightly differently (like 'el-wa't' in Egyptian), but the core meaning remains universal across the Arab world.

Social Context: In social gatherings, being 'on time' (fi al-waqt) can vary in strictness depending on the country, but the vocabulary remains the same. Asking 'kam al-waqt?' is a standard way to ask for the current time in many regions.

نحن بحاجة إلى مزيد من الوقت للتفكير.

(We need more time to think.)

In summary, الوقت is an indispensable noun for any learner. It bridges the gap between basic survival phrases and complex philosophical discussions. By mastering its use, you unlock the ability to sequence events, describe your life, and engage with the rhythmic nature of Arabic culture and language.

Using الوقت (al-waqt) correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that can be modified by adjectives or used in prepositional phrases. Because it is a masculine noun, any adjectives describing it must also be masculine. For example, 'long time' is waqt tawil, and 'short time' is waqt qasir. It often appears after prepositions like في (fi - in), مع (ma'a - with), or قبل (qabla - before).

Common Prepositional Phrases: 'Fi al-waqt al-munasib' (At the right time) is a very common phrase used to describe serendipity or proper scheduling. 'Ma'a murur al-waqt' (With the passage of time) is used to describe changes that happen gradually.

وصل القطار في الوقت المحدد تماماً.

(The train arrived exactly at the scheduled time.)

When you want to talk about 'spending time', Arabic uses the verb قضى (qada). So, 'I spent time with my family' becomes 'Qadaytu waqtan ma'a 'a'ilati'. Note that in this case, waqt takes the accusative case (waqtan) because it is the object of the verb. If you are talking about 'wasting time', you use the verb أضاع (ada'a) or ضيع (dayya'a).

Asking Questions: To ask 'What time is it?', you can say 'Kam al-waqt al-an?' (How much is the time now?). Although 'Kam al-sa'a?' is more common in many dialects, 'waqt' is perfectly understood and more formal.

هل لديك الوقت لمساعدتي في هذا المشروع؟

(Do you have the time to help me with this project?)

In more advanced usage, al-waqt can be used to describe eras. 'Waqt al-shidda' means 'time of hardship'. 'Waqt al-faragh' means 'leisure time' or 'free time'. It is also used in the negative to express urgency: 'La yujad waqt!' (There is no time!). This versatility makes it one of the most high-frequency nouns in the language. Whether you are writing a formal email or chatting with a neighbor, the structures remain relatively consistent.

Temporal Adjectives: Common adjectives include: munasib (appropriate), thamin (precious), kafi (enough), mahdud (limited), and tawil (long).

سأصل في الوقت تماماً، لا تقلق.

(I will arrive exactly on time, don't worry.)

By practicing these patterns, you will move from simply knowing the word to being able to manipulate it in complex sentences. Remember that al-waqt is not just a clock measurement; it is the fabric of how events are described in Arabic.

The word الوقت (al-waqt) is ubiquitous, appearing in every layer of Arabic society. From the high-register Arabic of news broadcasts to the rhythmic slang of the streets, you cannot escape it. If you turn on a news channel like Al Jazeera, you will hear it in the context of 'al-waqt al-rahin' (the current time/moment) or 'fi dhalika al-waqt' (at that time) when discussing historical events or ongoing conflicts.

In the Media: News anchors use it to sequence events: 'In the meantime' is often translated as 'wa fi hadhihi al-athna'' or 'wa fi dhalika al-waqt'. It provides the temporal framework for reporting.

قال المتحدث إن الوقت قد حان للتغيير.

(The spokesperson said that the time has come for change.)

In the workplace, al-waqt is central to productivity. Managers talk about 'idarat al-waqt' (time management) and 'taslim fi al-waqt' (delivery on time). If you are working in an office in Dubai, Riyadh, or Cairo, you will hear colleagues asking 'Hal ladayka waqt?' (Do you have time?) before starting a meeting. It is the language of deadlines and professional commitments.

Religious Context: In mosques and religious literature, 'waqt' refers to the prescribed times for prayer. The 'Mawaqit' are the specific windows of time during which each of the five prayers must be performed. This gives the word a sacred dimension.

يجب أن نصلي في الوقت المحدد.

(We must pray at the specified time.)

In daily social life, you hear it at train stations, airports, and bus stops. Announcements will mention 'waqt al-iqla'' (departure time) and 'waqt al-wusul' (arrival time). In a more casual setting, friends might say 'da' al-waqt' (time is gone/we are late) or 'lissa fi waqt' (there is still time). It is also a staple in Arabic music and poetry, often used to lament the passing of youth or the distance between lovers.

In Literature: Authors use al-waqt to build suspense or describe the atmosphere of a scene. It is a tool for narrative pacing, indicating how much time has elapsed between chapters or events.

كان الوقت ليلاً عندما بدأ المطر.

(It was night time when the rain started.)

Whether you are navigating a bustling city or reading a classic novel, al-waqt is the heartbeat of the sentence. It provides the necessary context for when things happen, how long they last, and why they matter.

Even though الوقت (al-waqt) is a basic word, English speakers often make specific errors when translating their concepts of time into Arabic. The most frequent mistake is confusing waqt with sa'a (hour/clock) or zaman (time/era). While they all relate to time, they are not interchangeable in every context.

Waqt vs. Sa'a: In English, we say 'What time is it?'. A literal translation might use 'waqt', but in many Arabic dialects, the standard question is 'Kam al-sa'a?' (How much is the hour?). Using 'waqt' here isn't wrong, but it can sound slightly unnatural or overly formal in casual settings.

Mistake: كم الوقت الآن؟ (Kam al-waqt al-an?)
Better: كم الساعة الآن؟ (Kam al-sa'a al-an?)

(While 'waqt' is understood, 'sa'a' is the standard for asking the clock time.)

Another common error involves the preposition 'on time'. English speakers often try to translate 'on' literally. However, in Arabic, we use في (fi - in). Saying 'ala al-waqt' is a common 'Arabish' mistake (mixing English logic with Arabic words). The correct phrase is 'fi al-waqt'.

Waqt vs. Zaman: Learners often use 'zaman' when they mean 'waqt'. 'Zaman' refers to time as an abstract concept or a long period (e.g., 'in the old times' - fi al-zaman al-qadim). If you are talking about a 10-minute interval, 'zaman' is too heavy; use 'waqt'.

Mistake: قضيت زمناً طويلاً في البنك. (I spent a 'zaman' at the bank.)
Correct: قضيت وقتاً طويلاً في البنك. (I spent a 'waqt' at the bank.)

(Use 'waqt' for specific durations in daily life.)

Confusion also arises with the word marrat (times/occurrences). If you want to say 'I saw him three times', you should not use waqt. You must use marrat. Waqt is for duration, not for counting instances of an event. This is a very frequent error for beginners who translate 'times' directly from English.

The Definite Article: English often omits 'the' before 'time' (e.g., 'Time is money'). Arabic almost always requires the definite article 'al-' when speaking about time as a general concept. Saying 'Waqt min dhahab' sounds like a fragment; 'Al-waqt min dhahab' is the full proverb.

Mistake: وقت يمر بسرعة. (Time passes quickly.)
Correct: الوقت يمر بسرعة. (The time passes quickly.)

By being mindful of these distinctions—preposition choice, gender agreement, and the difference between duration and frequency—you will sound much more like a native speaker and avoid the 'clunky' feel of direct translation.

Arabic is a language of incredible precision, and while الوقت (al-waqt) is the most common word for time, there are many alternatives that carry specific nuances. Choosing the right one can elevate your Arabic from basic to eloquent. Let's explore the synonyms and how they differ from al-waqt.

زمن (Zaman): This refers to time in a more philosophical or historical sense. It is used for long durations, eras, or the abstract concept of time as a dimension. You would use 'zaman' to talk about 'the good old days' (al-zaman al-jamil).

تغيرت الأحوال مع مرور الزمن.

(Conditions changed with the passage of time/ages.)

Another important word is حين (Hin). This usually means 'a moment' or 'a point in time'. It is often used in the phrase 'min hin li-akhar' (from time to time). It is more poetic and less 'scheduled' than waqt. Similarly, أوان (Awan) refers to the 'proper time' or 'season' for something. You might hear 'fawat al-awan' (too late / the time has passed).

مدة (Mudda): This word specifically means 'duration' or 'period'. If you are talking about the length of a contract or a stay, 'mudda' is more precise than 'waqt'. For example, 'muddat al-iqama' (duration of stay).

سأبقى هنا لـ مدة أسبوعين.

(I will stay here for a period of two weeks.)

Then there is ساعة (Sa'a). While it literally means 'hour' or 'clock', it is used colloquially to mean 'time' in general. In many dialects, people ask 'kam al-sa'a?' instead of 'kam al-waqt?'. It is the most practical word for daily time-telling. Finally, عصر ('Asr) and حقبة (Hiqba) are used for historical eras. 'Asr' is also the name of the afternoon prayer, highlighting how time is carved into the day.

Comparison Table

الوقت: General/Specific duration (The most versatile).
الزمن: Abstract/Long-term time (The most philosophical).
المدة: A fixed period (The most technical).
الحين: An indefinite moment (The most poetic).

حان أوان الرحيل.

(The time for departure has come.)

Understanding these nuances allows you to describe the flow of life with much more color. Whether you are discussing a brief moment (lahza), a specific duration (mudda), or the grand sweep of history (zaman), you now have the tools to choose the perfect word for the occasion.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"يجب الالتزام بالوقت المحدد للاجتماع."

Neutre

"هل لديك وقت للمساعدة؟"

Informel

"ما في وقت، يلا!"

Child friendly

"حان وقت النوم يا صغيري."

Argot

"الوقت بيجري!"

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'Mawaqit' (prayer times) comes from the same root. In the Quran, the word 'Kitaban Mawqutan' is used to describe prayer as a 'timed obligation'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /al.waqt/

US /æl.wɑːkt/

The stress is on the first syllable 'Waqt'.

Rime avec

نحت (naht - carving) بحت (baht - pure) تحت (taht - under) مقت (maqt - hatred) سحت (suht - forbidden gain) تخت (takht - bed/throne) بخت (bakht - luck) يخت (yakht - yacht)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'q' as 'k'. In Arabic, 'q' (ق) is deeper than 'k' (ك).
Dropping the 't' at the end.
Pronouncing the 'l' in 'al' too softly.
Confusing the short 'a' with a long 'aa'.
In Egyptian dialect, the 'q' is often silent (al-wa't).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Very easy to recognize; common root.

Écriture 2/5

Easy, but remember the 'q' and 't' sequence.

Expression orale 2/5

Requires correct pronunciation of the deep 'q'.

Écoute 1/5

High frequency word, easy to pick out.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

يوم (Day) ساعة (Hour) الآن (Now) قبل (Before) بعد (After)

Apprends ensuite

موعد (Appointment) جدول (Schedule) تاريخ (Date) مدة (Duration) عصر (Era)

Avancé

حقبة (Epoch) أزل (Eternity past) أبد (Eternity future) ديمومة (Permanence) سرمدي (Eternal)

Grammaire à connaître

The Idafa Construction

وقت النوم (Time of sleep) - The first word loses 'al-'.

Gender Agreement

وقت طويل (Long time) - Masculine noun takes masculine adjective.

Prepositions of Time

في الوقت (In time) - Use 'fi' for 'at/in/on' time.

Accusative of Time

قضيت وقتاً (I spent time) - Takes 'tan' ending as an object.

Plural Formation

أوقات (Awqat) - Broken plural pattern (Af'aal).

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Exemples par niveau

ليس لدي وقت.

I don't have time.

Laysa (is not) + ladayya (with me/I have) + waqt (time).

ما هو الوقت الآن؟

What is the time now?

Ma (what) + huwa (it) + al-waqt (the time) + al-an (now).

وقت الغداء.

Lunch time.

An Idafa construction: Waqt (time) + al-ghada (the lunch).

أنا أحتاج إلى وقت.

I need time.

Ana (I) + ahtaj (need) + ila (to) + waqt (time).

الوقت جميل اليوم.

The time (weather/moment) is beautiful today.

Al-waqt (the time) + jamil (beautiful) + al-yawm (today).

هل عندك وقت؟

Do you have time?

Hal (question marker) + 'indaka (at you/you have) + waqt (time).

هذا وقت النوم.

This is sleep time.

Hadha (this) + waqt (time) + al-nawm (the sleep).

شكراً على وقتك.

Thank you for your time.

Shukran (thanks) + 'ala (on/for) + waqtika (your time).

أقضي وقتاً طويلاً في القراءة.

I spend a long time reading.

Aqdi (I spend) + waqtan (time - accusative) + tawilan (long).

سأراك في الوقت المحدد.

I will see you at the scheduled time.

Sa (future marker) + araka (I see you) + fi (in) + al-waqt (the time) + al-muhaddad (the specified).

ليس هناك وقت للعب.

There is no time for play.

Laysa (is not) + hunaka (there) + waqt (time) + li (for) + al-la'ib (the play).

أحب قضاء الوقت مع عائلتي.

I love spending time with my family.

Uhibbu (I love) + qada' (spending) + al-waqt (the time) + ma'a (with) + 'a'ilati (my family).

الوقت يمر بسرعة في الإجازة.

Time passes quickly on vacation.

Al-waqt (the time) + yamurru (passes) + bi-sur'a (with speed/quickly).

هل يمكننا تغيير الوقت؟

Can we change the time?

Hal (question) + yumkinuna (is possible for us) + taghyir (changing) + al-waqt (the time).

في بعض الأوقات، أشعر بالتعب.

At some times, I feel tired.

Fi (in) + ba'd (some) + al-awqat (the times - plural).

هذا هو الوقت المناسب للبدء.

This is the right time to start.

Hadha (this) + huwa (it) + al-waqt (the time) + al-munasib (the suitable).

إدارة الوقت مهارة مهمة جداً.

Time management is a very important skill.

Idarat (management) + al-waqt (the time) + mahara (skill) + muhimma (important).

لا تضع وقتك في أشياء غير مفيدة.

Do not waste your time on useless things.

La (don't) + tudi' (waste) + waqtaka (your time) + fi (in) + ashya' (things).

استغل الوقت لتعلم لغة جديدة.

Make use of the time to learn a new language.

Istaghil (utilize - imperative) + al-waqt (the time) + li-ta'allum (to learn).

كان الوقت متأخراً عندما وصلنا.

The time was late when we arrived.

Kana (was) + al-waqt (the time) + muta'akhiran (late) + 'indama (when).

نحن نعيش في وقت صعب.

We are living in a difficult time.

Nahnu (we) + na'ishu (live) + fi (in) + waqt (time) + sa'b (difficult).

يجب أن نحترم وقت الآخرين.

We must respect the time of others.

Yajibu (must) + an (that) + nahtarima (we respect) + waqt (time) + al-akharin (the others).

الوقت كفيل بحل كل المشاكل.

Time is capable of solving all problems.

Al-waqt (the time) + kafil (guarantor/capable) + bi-hall (of solving).

كل شيء سيحدث في الوقت الصحيح.

Everything will happen at the right time.

Kull (every) + shay' (thing) + sayahduth (will happen) + fi (in) + al-waqt (the time).

الوقت من ذهب إن لم تدركه ذهب.

Time is gold; if you don't realize it, it's gone.

A famous proverb using 'dhahab' (gold) as a metaphor for value.

تعتمد الخطة على الوقت المتاح لنا.

The plan depends on the time available to us.

Ta'tamidu (depends) + 'ala (on) + al-waqt (the time) + al-mutah (the available).

في ذلك الوقت، لم تكن التكنولوجيا متطورة.

At that time, technology was not advanced.

Fi (in) + dhalika (that) + al-waqt (the time) + lam takun (was not).

يجب علينا استثمار الوقت في البحث العلمي.

We must invest time in scientific research.

Istithmar (investing) + al-waqt (the time) + fi (in) + al-bahth (the research).

الوقت الضائع لا يمكن استعادته أبداً.

Lost time can never be recovered.

Al-waqt (the time) + al-da'i' (the lost) + la yumkin (is not possible).

هل تعتقد أن الوقت يغير الشخصية؟

Do you think that time changes personality?

Hal (question) + ta'taqidu (you think) + yughayyiru (changes) + al-shakhsiya (the personality).

سنتحدث عن هذا الموضوع في وقت لاحق.

We will talk about this topic at a later time.

Fi (in) + waqt (time) + lahiq (later/subsequent).

الوقت هو العامل الحاسم في هذه المعركة.

Time is the decisive factor in this battle.

Al-waqt (the time) + al-'amil (the factor) + al-hasim (the decisive).

يتجاوز مفهوم الوقت الحدود الجغرافية والثقافية.

The concept of time transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.

Yatajawazu (transcends) + mafhum (concept) + al-waqt (the time).

إن ضيق الوقت يمنعنا من التعمق في التفاصيل.

The lack of time prevents us from delving into details.

Diq (narrowness/tightness) + al-waqt (the time) + yamna'una (prevents us).

الوقت في الفلسفة الحديثة ليس مجرد تسلسل خطي.

Time in modern philosophy is not just a linear sequence.

Al-waqt (the time) + laysa (is not) + mujarrad (merely) + tasalsul (sequence).

علينا مراعاة الوقت المستغرق في كل مرحلة.

We must consider the time taken in each stage.

Mura'at (considering) + al-waqt (the time) + al-mustaghraq (the consumed/taken).

يعكس الأدب العربي نظرة المجتمع إلى الوقت.

Arabic literature reflects society's view of time.

Ya'kisu (reflects) + adab (literature) + nazrat (view) + al-mujtama' (the society).

الوقت هو المورد الوحيد الذي لا يمكن تجديده.

Time is the only resource that cannot be renewed.

Al-waqt (the time) + al-maurid (the resource) + al-wahid (the only).

في الوقت الذي تتقدم فيه التكنولوجيا، تزداد الضغوط.

While technology advances, pressures increase.

Fi (in) + al-waqt (the time) + al-ladhi (which) + tataqaddamu (advances).

تتطلب هذه العملية وقتاً وجهداً كبيرين.

This process requires significant time and effort.

Tatatalabu (requires) + waqtan (time) + wa-jahdan (and effort) + kabirayn (large - dual).

إن إشكالية الوقت تكمن في كونه عصياً على التعريف المطلق.

The problem of time lies in its being resistant to absolute definition.

Ishkaliyat (problematic nature) + al-waqt (the time) + takmunu (lies/resides).

يتجلى الوقت في الوعي الإنساني كديمومة مستمرة.

Time manifests in human consciousness as a continuous duration.

Yatajalla (manifests) + al-waqt (the time) + al-wa'i (the consciousness).

الوقت هو الحيز الذي تتشكل فيه الهوية التاريخية للأمم.

Time is the space in which the historical identity of nations is formed.

Al-waqt (the time) + al-hayyiz (the space/domain) + tatashakkalu (forms).

تختلف التصورات الميتافيزيقية للوقت باختلاف المدارس الفكرية.

Metaphysical perceptions of time vary across different schools of thought.

Takhtalifu (differ) + al-tasawwurat (the perceptions) + al-mitafiziqiya (metaphysical).

إن استنفاد الوقت في التفاهات هو انتحار بطيء للروح.

Exhausting time on trivialities is a slow suicide of the soul.

Istinfad (exhausting) + al-waqt (the time) + al-tafahat (the trivialities).

يظل الوقت لغزاً يحير العلماء والفلاسفة على حد سواء.

Time remains a mystery that puzzles scientists and philosophers alike.

Yadallu (remains) + al-waqt (the time) + lughzan (a mystery).

الوقت هو الخيط الذي يربط بين الماضي والحاضر والمستقبل.

Time is the thread that links the past, present, and future.

Al-waqt (the time) + al-khayt (the thread) + yarbitu (links).

تتجذر قدسية الوقت في العديد من التقاليد الروحية الشرقية.

The sanctity of time is rooted in many Eastern spiritual traditions.

Tatajadhara (is rooted) + qudsiyat (sanctity) + al-waqt (the time).

Collocations courantes

ضيق الوقت

إضاعة الوقت

تنظيم الوقت

مرور الوقت

الوقت المناسب

الوقت الحالي

كسب الوقت

الوقت المحدد

فائض الوقت

الوقت الضائع

Phrases Courantes

في الوقت نفسه

— At the same time. Used to describe simultaneous events.

أدرس وأعمل في الوقت نفسه.

منذ ذلك الوقت

— Since that time. Used to refer back to a starting point.

لم أره منذ ذلك الوقت.

في أقرب وقت

— As soon as possible. Used for urgent requests.

اتصل بي في أقرب وقت.

طوال الوقت

— All the time. Used for continuous actions.

هو يتحدث طوال الوقت.

وقت الفراغ

— Free time / Leisure time.

ماذا تفعل في وقت فراغك؟

في أي وقت

— At any time. Used to offer availability.

يمكنك زيارتي في أي وقت.

قبل فوات الأوان

— Before it's too late (literally: before the time passes).

يجب أن نتحرك قبل فوات الأوان.

الوقت يداهمنا

— Time is running out (literally: time is raiding us).

أسرع، الوقت يداهمنا!

في الوقت الحاضر

— At the present time.

في الوقت الحاضر، لا توجد وظائف.

بمرور الوقت

— Over time / As time goes by.

ستنسى الألم بمرور الوقت.

Souvent confondu avec

الوقت vs ساعة

Means 'hour' or 'clock'. Used for telling time (e.g., 3 o'clock).

الوقت vs مرة

Means 'time' as in 'one time, two times' (frequency).

الوقت vs زمن

Means 'time' as in 'era' or 'abstract time'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"الوقت من ذهب"

— Time is gold. Emphasizes the extreme value of time.

لا تكسل، الوقت من ذهب.

Common Proverb

"الوقت كالسيف إن لم تقطعه قطعك"

— Time is like a sword; if you don't cut it, it cuts you. Meaning: Use time before it uses you up.

تذكر دائماً أن الوقت كالسيف.

Literary/Educational

"في الوقت الضائع"

— In the nick of time / At the last possible moment.

نجح في الامتحان في الوقت الضائع.

Informal/Sports

"سابق الوقت"

— To race against time.

العلماء يسابقون الوقت لإيجاد علاج.

Formal

"قتل الوقت"

— To kill time (doing something boring to pass time).

كنا نلعب الورق لقتل الوقت.

Informal

"الوقت لم يحن بعد"

— The time has not come yet.

لا تخبره الآن، الوقت لم يحن بعد.

Neutral

"على مدار الساعة"

— Around the clock / 24/7.

المستشفى يعمل على مدار الساعة.

Formal

"بين الحين والآخر"

— Every now and then.

أزوره بين الحين والآخر.

Neutral

"فات الأوان"

— It's too late.

اعتذر، لكن فات الأوان.

Neutral

"في غضون"

— Within the time of / During.

سأعود في غضون ساعة.

Formal

Facile à confondre

الوقت vs ساعة

Both translate to 'time' in English.

'Waqt' is duration/concept; 'Sa'a' is the specific hour on a clock.

كم الساعة؟ (What time is it?) vs ليس لدي وقت (I don't have time).

الوقت vs مرة

English uses 'time' for both duration and frequency.

'Waqt' is duration; 'Marra' is an occurrence.

رأيته ثلاث مرات (I saw him three times).

الوقت vs زمن

Synonyms for 'time'.

'Waqt' is specific/human; 'Zaman' is grand/historical.

في هذا الوقت (At this time) vs في ذلك الزمان (In that era).

الوقت vs حين

Both mean 'time/moment'.

'Hin' is more literary and often used for indefinite moments.

حين كنت صغيراً (When I was young).

الوقت vs فترة

Both mean 'period of time'.

'Fatra' implies a specific interval with a start and end.

فترة الصيف (The summer period).

Structures de phrases

ليس لدي [noun]

ليس لدي وقت.

حان وقت [noun]

حان وقت الدرس.

أقضي وقتي في [verb-ing]

أقضي وقتي في القراءة.

في [adjective] وقت

في أقرب وقت.

مع مرور الوقت، [sentence]

مع مرور الوقت، ستتعلم.

لا تضيع وقتك في [noun]

لا تضيع وقتك في اللعب.

الوقت هو [noun] الذي [verb]

الوقت هو المورد الذي ينفد.

في الوقت الذي [verb] فيه [subject]...

في الوقت الذي ننتظر فيه، يمر العمر.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high. One of the top 100 nouns in Arabic.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'ala al-waqt' for 'on time'. → في الوقت (fi al-waqt).
Arabic uses the preposition 'fi' (in) to express being on schedule.
Saying 'ثلاث أوقات' for 'three times'. → ثلاث مرات (thalath marrat).
Use 'marrat' for frequency/occurrences, not 'awqat'.
Using 'waqt' to ask the hour in a casual setting. → كم الساعة؟ (Kam al-sa'a?).
While 'Kam al-waqt' is correct, 'Kam al-sa'a' is the standard social greeting.
Using a feminine adjective with 'waqt'. → وقت طويل (waqt tawil).
'Waqt' is a masculine noun.
Omitting the 'al-' in general proverbs. → الوقت من ذهب (Al-waqt min dhahab).
Abstract concepts in Arabic usually require the definite article.

Astuces

Masculine Adjectives

Always pair 'الوقت' with masculine adjectives. Say 'وقت ممتع' (waqt mumti') not 'ممتعة' (mumti'a).

Idafa Construction

When saying 'time of [something]', drop the 'al-' from 'waqt'. Example: 'وقت العمل' (waqt al-'amal).

The Deep Q

Practice the 'qaf' (ق) sound. If you say 'wakt' with a 'k', it sounds like 'waket' (a different, rare root).

Prayer Times

Understanding 'waqt' helps you understand the rhythm of the day in Arab countries, which is often tied to 'mawaqit al-salat'.

Don't Count Instances

Use 'marra' for 'one time, two times'. Use 'waqt' only for duration or specific moments.

Definite Article

In general statements like 'Time is important', always use 'الوقت' with the 'al-'.

Dialect Variations

Be prepared to hear 'wa't' in Egypt and 'wagt' in the Gulf. The meaning remains the same.

Time is Gold

Memorize 'Al-waqt min dhahab'. It's a great conversation filler and shows cultural knowledge.

Watch-Quit

Remember: Waqt = Watch (W) + Quit (t). It's the time on your watch!

Compound Words

Learn 'waqt al-faragh' (free time) early on; it's one of the most useful phrases for beginners.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Watch' and a 'Quit' button. When the 'Waqt' is up, you 'Quit'. W-A-Q-T.

Association visuelle

Imagine an hourglass where each grain of sand is a tiny letter 'Q' falling down. The whole thing is the 'Waqt'.

Word Web

Time Clock Schedule Duration Moment Appointment Era Deadline

Défi

Try to use 'al-waqt' in three different sentences today: one about being busy, one about the current time, and one about a hobby.

Origine du mot

The word comes from the Arabic root و-ق-ت (W-Q-T). This root is associated with the idea of defining, limiting, or appointing a specific period for something.

Sens originel : To appoint a fixed time or limit.

Semitic (Afroasiatic).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that in some traditional settings, asking 'what time is it' repeatedly might be seen as rushing the host. Hospitality often 'stops the clock'.

English speakers often focus on 'saving' or 'spending' time like money. Arabic speakers also use this metaphor (al-waqt min dhahab), but often emphasize the 'passage' of time as a divine decree.

Surah Al-Asr in the Quran (By the Time...). The poem 'Al-Atlal' by Umm Kulthum mentions the passage of time. The proverb 'Al-waqt kalsayf' is taught in every Arab school.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At Work

موعد التسليم (Deadline)
إدارة الوقت (Time management)
في الوقت المحدد (On time)
اجتماع في الوقت (Meeting on time)

Travel

وقت الإقلاع (Departure time)
وقت الوصول (Arrival time)
كم الوقت المستغرق؟ (How long does it take?)
توقيت الرحلة (Flight timing)

Socializing

وقت ممتع (Good time)
في أي وقت؟ (At what time?)
وقت الفراغ (Free time)
شكراً على وقتك (Thanks for your time)

Religion

وقت الصلاة (Prayer time)
مواقيت (Appointed times)
في وقتها (On its time/promptly)
أول الوقت (Beginning of the time window)

Urgency

لا يوجد وقت (No time)
بسرعة، الوقت! (Quickly, the time!)
فات الوقت (Time has passed)
الوقت يداهمنا (Time is pressing us)

Amorces de conversation

"كيف تقضي وقت فراغك في العادة؟ (How do you usually spend your free time?)"

"هل تعتقد أن الوقت يمر بسرعة هذه الأيام؟ (Do you think time is passing quickly these days?)"

"ما هو أفضل وقت في اليوم بالنسبة لك؟ (What is the best time of day for you?)"

"هل أنت شخص يحترم الوقت والمواعيد؟ (Are you someone who respects time and appointments?)"

"كيف تنظم وقتك بين العمل والحياة الخاصة؟ (How do you organize your time between work and private life?)"

Sujets d'écriture

اكتب عن يوم شعرت فيه أن الوقت توقف تماماً. (Write about a day when you felt time stopped completely.)

ماذا ستفعل إذا كان لديك ساعة إضافية كل يوم؟ (What would you do if you had an extra hour every day?)

صف أهمية الوقت في ثقافتك الخاصة. (Describe the importance of time in your own culture.)

هل تفضل قضاء الوقت وحيداً أم مع الآخرين؟ ولماذا؟ (Do you prefer spending time alone or with others? Why?)

اكتب عن ذكرى قديمة وكيف غيرها مرور الوقت. (Write about an old memory and how the passage of time changed it.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

You say 'في الوقت المحدد' (fi al-waqt al-muhaddad) or simply 'في الوقت' (fi al-waqt). Avoid using 'ala' (on) as it is a literal translation from English and sounds incorrect.

It is masculine. Therefore, you use masculine adjectives like 'طويل' (tawil) and masculine verbs like 'يمر' (yamurru).

The plural is 'أوقات' (awqat). It is used in phrases like 'في كل الأوقات' (at all times).

Yes, you can say 'كم الوقت؟' (Kam al-waqt?), but 'كم الساعة؟' (Kam al-sa'a?) is much more common in daily life.

'Waqt' is for specific periods, appointments, and daily life. 'Zaman' is for history, eras, and time as a philosophical concept.

The most common phrase is 'وقت الفراغ' (waqt al-faragh).

You use the verb 'ضيع' (dayya'a) or 'أضاع' (ada'a). So, 'تضيع الوقت' (tadi' al-waqt).

Yes, the root appears many times, often referring to appointed times for prayer or divine events.

It is a voiceless uvular stop. It is produced by touching the back of the tongue to the soft palate (uvula). It sounds deeper than a 'k'.

No, 'weather' is 'طقس' (taqs) or 'جو' (jaw). However, in some very old contexts, it might refer to the 'time of the season', but it's not used for weather today.

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