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A2 noun 9 min de lecture

مقبلة

muqabbila

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces مقبلة en 30 secondes

Explication مقبلة in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'مقبلة' (Muqabbila) means 'appetizer' or 'starter'. Think of it as the food you eat first at a restaurant. It is a feminine word, so we say 'مقبلة واحدة' (one appetizer). You will see it on menus. It is important for ordering food. You can use it simply: 'أريد مقبلة' (I want an appetizer). Most people use the plural 'مقبلات' (Muqabbilat) because we usually eat many small dishes together like Hummus or Salad.

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At the A2 level, you should start using 'مقبلة' in basic sentences with adjectives. For example, 'مقبلة باردة' (cold appetizer) or 'مقبلة ساخنة' (hot appetizer). You should also know that it comes from the root 'Q-B-L', which means 'before' or 'to meet'. This helps you remember that it's the food that 'meets' you first. You can use it to ask questions in a restaurant like 'ما هي أفضل مقبلة عندكم؟' (What is your best appetizer?). You should also be comfortable using the plural form 'مقبلات' when talking about a variety of dishes.

At the B1 level, you can use 'مقبلة' to describe culinary traditions. You should understand the difference between a 'مقبلة' (a single dish) and 'المزة' (the cultural concept of many appetizers). You can use the word to explain recipes: 'نقدم هذه المقبلة مع الخبز' (We serve this appetizer with bread). You should also be aware of gender agreement in more complex sentences and start using the word in different contexts, like describing a party or a family gathering where 'مقبلات' are served. You can also use it in comparisons, like 'هذه المقبلة ألذ من غيرها'.

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At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss the cultural significance of 'مقبلات' in the Arab world. You can talk about how they represent hospitality and the social nature of sharing food. You should be able to use the word in formal writing, such as a food review or a cultural essay. You should also understand related words from the same root like 'مستقبل' (future) and 'مقابلة' (interview) and ensure you don't confuse them. Your use of adjectives and grammar (like the 'idafa' construction) with 'مقبلات' should be accurate, for example 'قائمة المقبلات الشهية'.

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At the C1 level, you can explore the metaphorical uses and the etymological depth of the word. You understand how the root 'Q-B-L' influences the meaning of 'facing' the meal. You can discuss regional variations in 'مقبلات' across the Arab world, from the 'Muqabbilat' of the Levant to the 'Shlada' of Morocco. You can use the word in professional culinary contexts or high-level social commentary about Middle Eastern lifestyle. You should also be able to distinguish between 'مقبلات' and technical terms like 'فاتح للشهية' (aperitif/appetizer) in formal texts.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word and its nuances. You can appreciate the word's role in classical and modern Arabic literature where food is used as a motif for generosity or social class. You can engage in deep linguistic discussions about the transition of the root 'Q-B-L' into specific culinary terminology. You can use the word with perfect grammatical precision in any context, whether it's a technical cookbook, a diplomatic banquet description, or a complex narrative. You understand the subtle social cues involved in offering 'مقبلات' and can describe them with poetic flair.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

مقبلة en 30 secondes

Muqabbila means appetizer or starter in Arabic.
It is a feminine noun derived from the root Q-B-L (to come before).
The plural form, Muqabbilat, is commonly used for the 'Mezza' spread.
It is essential vocabulary for dining and hospitality in the Arab world.

The word مقبلة (Muqabbila) is a fundamental term in the Arabic culinary lexicon, primarily referring to an appetizer or a starter. Derived from the Arabic root ق-ب-ل (q-b-l), which carries the core meaning of 'to meet,' 'to face,' or 'to come before,' the term literally signifies something that comes ahead of the main event—in this case, the main course. In the context of Middle Eastern dining, especially in the Levant (Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine), the concept of مقبلات (Muqabbilat, the plural form) is not just about food; it is a social institution. These small dishes are designed to stimulate the appetite and provide a variety of flavors and textures that prepare the palate for the heavier dishes to follow. Unlike the Western concept of a single starter, Arabic مقبلات are often served in a spread known as 'Mezza,' where multiple small plates like hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh are shared among the table. You will use this word most frequently in restaurants, during formal dinner invitations, and when discussing traditional recipes.

Grammatical Category: It is a feminine singular noun. While the singular form refers to one specific dish, the plural form 'مقبلات' is much more common in daily speech.

هل تود طلب مقبلة باردة قبل الوجبة؟ (Would you like to order a cold appetizer before the meal?)

The usage of مقبلة extends beyond just the food itself; it reflects the hospitality of the host. Offering a rich variety of starters is a sign of generosity. In a linguistic sense, the word is related to 'mustaqbal' (future) and 'muqabala' (interview), all sharing the theme of 'facing' something. When you sit at an Arabic table, the مقبلات are the first thing you face. They are meant to be eaten slowly, often with bread, while engaging in conversation. It is important to note that while some use 'fatih li-shahiya' (appetite opener), مقبلة is the standard modern term found on menus across the Arab world, from the Maghreb to the Gulf.

هذه الـمقبلة مشهورة جداً في لبنان. (This appetizer is very famous in Lebanon.)

Cultural Nuance: In many Arab cultures, the appetizers can be so plentiful that guests might feel full before the main course even arrives.

When using the word in a sentence, remember that it is feminine, so adjectives following it must also be feminine. For example, 'مقبلة لذيذة' (a delicious appetizer). In formal Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), the word is pronounced 'muqabbila,' but in various dialects, the pronunciation of the 'qaf' might change to a glottal stop (mu'abbila) or a 'g' sound (mugabbila), depending on the region. Regardless of the dialect, the word remains the standard way to describe the first course of a meal.

Using مقبلة correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with adjectives and verbs. Since it is a feminine noun ending in 'ta marbuta' (ة), any description of it must agree in gender. For instance, if you want to say 'the hot appetizer,' you would say 'المقبلة الساخنة' (al-muqabbila al-sakhina). If you are ordering in a restaurant, you might use the verb 'طلب' (to order) or 'أراد' (to want). A very common structure is 'أريد [name of dish] كمقبلة' (I want [dish] as an appetizer). This helps the waiter understand that you want that specific dish served first rather than with the main meal.

Common Verb Pairings: Common verbs used with this word include: قدم (to serve), حضر (to prepare), and تذوق (to taste).

قدمت المضيفة مقبلة شهية من الزيتون والجبن. (The hostess served an appetizing starter of olives and cheese.)

In more complex sentences, you might use مقبلة to compare different parts of a meal. For example, 'كانت المقبلة أفضل من الطبق الرئيسي' (The appetizer was better than the main dish). This is a great way to practice your comparative adjectives. When talking about a variety, the plural مقبلات is almost always preferred. 'نحن نحب المقبلات اللبنانية' (We love Lebanese appetizers). Notice how the adjective 'اللبنانية' also takes the feminine singular form because it describes a non-human plural noun.

هل يمكننا الحصول على قائمة الـمقبلات؟ (Can we have the appetizers menu?)

Furthermore, the word can be used in the context of cooking recipes. 'هذه الوصفة تعتبر مقبلة خفيفة وسهلة التحضير' (This recipe is considered a light and easy-to-prepare appetizer). Here, 'خفيفة' (light) and 'سهلة' (easy) are adjectives modifying 'مقبلة'. In everyday conversation, you might hear people asking 'ماذا سنأكل كـ مقبلة؟' (What will we eat as an appetizer?). This demonstrates the flexibility of the word in both formal and casual settings.

The most common place to encounter the word مقبلة is undoubtedly in a restaurant setting. Whether you are in a high-end dining establishment in Dubai or a small family-run eatery in Cairo, the menu will almost certainly have a section labeled مقبلات. Waiters will often ask you, 'هل نبدأ ببعض المقبلات؟' (Shall we start with some appetizers?). You will also hear it frequently on cooking television shows and YouTube channels. Chefs like Manal Al Alem often use this word when introducing a recipe that is meant to be served before the main course. They might say, 'اليوم سنحضر مقبلة سريعة' (Today we will prepare a quick appetizer).

Social Gatherings: During Ramadan, the word is used constantly. The 'Iftar' meal always begins with 'مقبلات' like soup or sambousek to break the fast gently.

في الأعراس العربية، تكون الـمقبلات متنوعة جداً. (In Arabic weddings, the appetizers are very diverse.)

In addition to physical locations, you will find this word throughout Arabic literature and lifestyle magazines. In travel blogs describing Middle Eastern cuisine, 'مقبلة' is used to categorize dishes like hummus, mutabal, and falafel. In a domestic setting, a mother might tell her children, 'لا تأكلوا الكثير من المقبلات لكي تتركوا مكاناً للغداء' (Don't eat too many appetizers so you leave room for lunch). This reflects the practical, everyday use of the word in family life. Interestingly, in some diplomatic or formal contexts, the word might be used metaphorically to describe a 'preliminary' step or an 'introductory' phase of a meeting, though this is much less common than its culinary usage.

شاهدت برنامجاً عن كيفية تزيين الـمقبلات. (I watched a program on how to garnish appetizers.)

Finally, in the age of social media, hashtags like #مقبلات and #مقبلات_شهية are incredibly popular on Instagram and TikTok, where food influencers showcase visually stunning spreads of Arabic starters. If you are following any Arabic-speaking foodies, you will see this word daily in their captions and stories. It is a word that bridges the gap between traditional heritage and modern lifestyle.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word مقبلة is confusing it with other words derived from the same root ق-ب-ل. For example, the word مقابلة (Muqabala) means 'interview' or 'meeting.' Because they sound similar, students often accidentally say they want to eat an 'interview' or that they have a 'starter' with a company. Another confusion arises with مستقبل (Mustaqbal), which means 'future.' While all these words share the idea of 'what is ahead,' their meanings are strictly distinct in daily usage.

Gender Agreement Error: Learners often forget that 'مقبلة' is feminine. Saying 'مقبلة لذيذ' (masculine adjective) instead of 'مقبلة لذيذة' (feminine adjective) is a frequent error.

خطأ: أريد مقابلة باردة. (Wrong: I want a cold interview.)
صح: أريد مقبلة باردة. (Correct: I want a cold appetizer.)

Another mistake is using the singular مقبلة when the plural مقبلات is required. In Arabic culture, it is rare to serve just one appetizer; usually, it is a variety. Therefore, if you are asking for the appetizer section of a menu, you should always use the plural. Using the singular might make you sound like you are looking for one specific, unnamed dish. Furthermore, some learners confuse the word with وجبة خفيفة (Wajba khafifa), which means 'snack.' While an appetizer is a snack in a sense, a 'snack' is something you eat between meals, whereas a 'muqabbila' is specifically the start of a meal.

خطأ: هل هذه الـمقبل حار؟ (Wrong: Is this appetizer [masc] spicy?)
صح: هل هذه الـمقبلة حارة؟ (Correct: Is this appetizer [fem] spicy?)

Lastly, some learners try to translate 'starter' literally as 'بداية' (Bidaya). While 'بداية الوجبة' (the start of the meal) is grammatically correct, it is not the natural word used for food. Stick to مقبلة to sound like a native speaker. Also, be careful with the word مقبل (Muqbil) without the 'ta marbuta,' which is an adjective meaning 'coming' or 'next' (as in 'the next month'). Adding the 'ة' is crucial to turn the adjective into the noun for food.

While مقبلة is the most versatile and standard term, there are several other words you can use depending on the context and the specific region. The most famous alternative is مزة (Mezza). This term is used throughout the Levant and Turkey to describe the entire spread of small dishes served at the beginning of a meal. While 'مقبلة' refers to a single dish, 'مزة' refers to the experience and the collection of dishes. If you are in Lebanon or Syria, saying 'طلبنا مزة' (We ordered Mezza) is very common.

Comparison: Muqabbila vs. Mezza: Muqabbila: Formal, refers to the category of 'appetizer'.
Mezza: Cultural, refers to the collective spread of dishes.

المزة اللبنانية تتكون من عدة مقبلات. (Lebanese Mezza consists of several appetizers.)

Another term you might encounter is فاتح للشهية (Fatih li-shahiya). This literally means 'appetite opener.' It is a more descriptive and slightly more formal way to refer to starters. You might see this in health contexts or in very high-end culinary writing. In North Africa, particularly in Morocco, you might hear the word شلاظة (Shlada), which specifically refers to salads served as starters. While not a direct synonym for all appetizers, it occupies the same 'course' position in a Moroccan meal.

يعتبر الحساء فاتحاً للشهية ممتازاً. (Soup is considered an excellent appetite opener.)

For small bites that are not necessarily part of a formal meal, you can use تصبيرة (Tasbeera). This word comes from 'sabr' (patience) and refers to a small snack eaten to 'give one patience' until the main meal is ready. It is much more informal than 'مقبلة'. Understanding these nuances helps you navigate different social and regional settings in the Arab world. Whether you are ordering a formal 'muqabbila' or sharing a casual 'mezza,' you now have the vocabulary to describe the start of your delicious Arabic meal.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word is related to 'Qibla' (the direction Muslims face during prayer) because both involve 'facing' something.

Guide de prononciation

UK /muˈkæb.ɪ.lə/

US /muˈkɑːb.ə.lə/

Second syllable (qab).

Rime avec

مستقبلة (Mustaqbila) مسجلة (Musajjila) مقابلة (Muqabala - slant rhyme) معادلة (Mu'adala) مرحلة (Marhala) مشكلة (Mushkila) مذهلة (Mudhila) متفائلة (Mutafa'ila)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it as 'Muqabala' (interview).
Skipping the 'shadda' on the letter 'ba'.
Failing to pronounce the 'ta marbuta' at the end when followed by another word.
Pronouncing the 'qaf' as a soft 'k' instead of a deep uvular 'q'.
Confusing the vowels 'u' and 'i'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to read, common letters, 'ta marbuta' is clear.

Écriture 3/5

Requires correct placement of the 'qaf' and 'ba' with shadda.

Expression orale 3/5

The uvular 'qaf' and 'shadda' on 'ba' can be tricky for beginners.

Écoute 2/5

Very distinct sound, though can be confused with similar roots.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

طعام (Food) مطعم (Restaurant) قبل (Before) أكل (To eat) قائمة (Menu)

Apprends ensuite

وجبة (Meal) طبق رئيسي (Main dish) تحلية (Dessert) فاتورة (Bill) حساب (Account/Check)

Avancé

فاتح للشهية (Appetizer/Aperitif) وليمة (Feast) ضيافة (Hospitality) مذاق (Taste) قوام (Texture)

Grammaire à connaître

Gender Agreement

مقبلة (fem) + شهية (fem)

Plural of Non-Human Nouns

المقبلات (plural) + لذيذة (singular feminine adjective)

The Idafa Construction

صحنُ المقبلاتِ (The plate of appetizers)

Prepositions with Verbs

نبدأُ بالمقبلاتِ (We start with appetizers)

The Shadda

مقبّلة (The double 'b' sound)

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Exemples par niveau

أريد مقبلة.

I want an appetizer.

Simple noun usage.

هذه مقبلة لذيذة.

This is a delicious appetizer.

Feminine noun with feminine adjective.

أين المقبلات؟

Where are the appetizers?

Plural form 'مقبلات'.

المقبلة باردة.

The appetizer is cold.

Subject-predicate agreement.

شكراً على المقبلة.

Thank you for the appetizer.

Preposition 'على' followed by the noun.

أحب هذه المقبلة.

I love this appetizer.

Verb 'أحب' with direct object.

هل هذه مقبلة؟

Is this an appetizer?

Basic question structure.

مقبلة صغيرة.

A small appetizer.

Noun-adjective pair.

هل تطلب مقبلة ساخنة أم باردة؟

Are you ordering a hot or cold appetizer?

Using 'أم' for choice.

المقبلات في هذا المطعم ممتازة.

The appetizers in this restaurant are excellent.

Plural noun as a subject.

نبدأ الوجبة بمقبلة خفيفة.

We start the meal with a light appetizer.

Preposition 'بـ' meaning 'with'.

أريد صحن مقبلات مشكلة.

I want a mixed appetizer plate.

Idafa construction (possessive).

هذه المقبلة مصنوعة من الباذنجان.

This appetizer is made of eggplant.

Passive participle 'مصنوعة'.

لا تنسَ طلب المقبلات.

Don't forget to order the appetizers.

Negative imperative.

المقبلة هي أول شيء نأكله.

The appetizer is the first thing we eat.

Relative clause structure.

سأحضر مقبلة سهلة للحفلة.

I will prepare an easy appetizer for the party.

Future tense with 'سـ'.

تعتبر الكبة مقبلة مشهورة في سوريا.

Kibbeh is considered a famous appetizer in Syria.

Passive verb 'تعتبر'.

يفضل الكثيرون تناول المقبلات قبل الطبق الرئيسي.

Many people prefer eating appetizers before the main course.

Plural verb agreement.

هل يمكنني استبدال هذه المقبلة بسلطة؟

Can I replace this appetizer with a salad?

Verb 'استبدل' with preposition 'بـ'.

تحتوي هذه المقبلة على الكثير من الثوم.

This appetizer contains a lot of garlic.

Verb 'تحتوي على'.

المقبلات اللبنانية معروفة عالمياً بتنوعها.

Lebanese appetizers are known globally for their variety.

Adjective agreement for non-human plural.

إذا كنت جائعاً، اطلب مقبلة أولاً.

If you are hungry, order an appetizer first.

Conditional sentence with 'إذا'.

تعلمت كيفية تحضير مقبلة جديدة اليوم.

I learned how to prepare a new appetizer today.

Masdar 'تحضير' (preparing).

المقبلة كانت كافية لإشباعي.

The appetizer was enough to satisfy me.

Past tense 'كانت'.

تتنوع المقبلات في المطبخ العربي لتشمل الخضروات واللحوم.

Appetizers vary in Arabic cuisine to include vegetables and meats.

Verb 'تتنوع' (to vary).

من العادات العربية تقديم مقبلات متعددة للضيوف.

It is an Arabic custom to serve multiple appetizers to guests.

Nominal sentence starting with a prepositional phrase.

تتميز هذه المقبلة بنكهتها الحامضة والمنعشة.

This appetizer is characterized by its sour and refreshing flavor.

Verb 'تتميز بـ'.

لا يكتمل العشاء بدون مجموعة من المقبلات الشهية.

Dinner is not complete without a selection of delicious appetizers.

Negative 'لا يكتمل'.

تعد المقبلات جزءاً لا يتجزأ من الثقافة الاجتماعية.

Appetizers are an integral part of social culture.

Idiomatic expression 'جزءاً لا يتجزأ'.

يجب أن تكون المقبلة متناسقة مع باقي الوجبة.

The appetizer must be consistent with the rest of the meal.

Modal 'يجب أن'.

يتم تقديم المقبلات عادة في أطباق صغيرة مشتركة.

Appetizers are usually served in small shared plates.

Passive structure 'يتم تقديم'.

اشتهر هذا الطاهي بابتكار مقبلات غير تقليدية.

This chef became famous for creating unconventional appetizers.

Verb 'اشتهر بـ'.

تعكس المقبلات غنى وتنوع البيئة الجغرافية لكل منطقة.

Appetizers reflect the richness and diversity of the geographical environment of each region.

Verb 'تعكس' (reflect).

تعتبر المقبلات 'مقدمة' فلسفية لتجربة الطعام المتكاملة.

Appetizers are considered a philosophical 'introduction' to the integrated dining experience.

Metaphorical usage.

إن الاهتمام بتزيين المقبلات لا يقل أهمية عن مذاقها.

The attention to garnishing appetizers is no less important than their taste.

Emphasis with 'إن'.

تتداخل المكونات في هذه المقبلة لتخلق توازناً فريداً.

The ingredients in this appetizer intertwine to create a unique balance.

Verb 'تتداخل'.

غالباً ما تكون المقبلات وسيلة لكسر الجمود في اللقاءات الرسمية.

Appetizers are often a way to break the ice in formal meetings.

Idiom 'كسر الجمود'.

تطورت المقبلات من مجرد لقيمات بسيطة إلى أطباق معقدة.

Appetizers have evolved from mere simple bites into complex dishes.

Preposition 'من... إلى'.

تؤدي المقبلات دوراً حيوياً في تحفيز الحواس قبل الوجبة الدسمة.

Appetizers play a vital role in stimulating the senses before a heavy meal.

Verb 'تؤدي دوراً'.

رغم بساطة هذه المقبلة، إلا أنها تحمل تاريخاً عريقاً.

Despite the simplicity of this appetizer, it carries an ancient history.

Conjunction 'رغم... إلا أن'.

تتجلى عبقرية المطبخ الشرقي في قدرته على تحويل أبسط المكونات إلى مقبلات فاخرة.

The genius of Eastern cuisine is manifested in its ability to transform the simplest ingredients into luxurious appetizers.

Verb 'تتجلى'.

ليست المقبلات مجرد استهلال للوجبة، بل هي طقس اجتماعي يكرس قيم الكرم.

Appetizers are not just a prelude to the meal, but a social ritual that consecrates the values of generosity.

Contrast 'ليست... بل'.

يستشف المرء من خلال تنوع المقبلات مدى الانفتاح الثقافي للمجتمع.

One can discern through the variety of appetizers the extent of the society's cultural openness.

Verb 'يستشف'.

تعد المقبلات بمثابة الواجهة التي تعبر عن هوية المطعم وفلسفته.

Appetizers serve as the facade that expresses the restaurant's identity and philosophy.

Metaphorical 'بمثابة الواجهة'.

إن التناغم بين قوام المقبلة ودرجة حرارتها يحدد جودة التجربة الحسية.

The harmony between the appetizer's texture and its temperature determines the quality of the sensory experience.

Abstract nouns like 'قوام' and 'تناغم'.

تنبثق أهمية المقبلات من قدرتها على تهيئة المعدة لاستقبال ما يليها من أطباق.

The importance of appetizers stems from their ability to prepare the stomach to receive the subsequent dishes.

Verb 'تنبثق من'.

قد تغني المقبلات الغنية عن الوجبة الرئيسية في بعض المناسبات الاجتماعية المخملية.

Rich appetizers may suffice instead of a main meal in some high-society social occasions.

Verb 'تغني عن'.

تظل المقبلة هي العنصر الأكثر مرونة وقابلية للابتكار في فن الطهي المعاصر.

The appetizer remains the most flexible and innovative element in contemporary culinary arts.

Superlative 'الأكثر مرونة'.

Synonymes

مزة فاتح للشهية بداية تصبيرة لقمة خفايف أطباق جانبية مشويات صغيرة

Antonymes

تحلية طبق رئيسي خاتمة وجبة دسمة

Collocations courantes

مقبلة باردة

مقبلة ساخنة

قائمة المقبلات

صحن مقبلات

مقبلات مشكلة

مقبلة خفيفة

تحضير المقبلات

مقبلات شرقية

تقديم المقبلات

أنواع المقبلات

Phrases Courantes

هل نبدأ بالمقبلات؟

— A common way to ask if the table is ready to order starters.

سأل النادل: هل نبدأ بالمقبلات؟

مقبلات فاتحة للشهية

— Describes starters specifically meant to increase hunger.

قدموا لنا مقبلات فاتحة للشهية.

تشكيلة مقبلات

— A variety or assortment of appetizers.

عندنا تشكيلة مقبلات رائعة.

مقبلات رمضانية

— Specific starters eaten during the month of Ramadan.

السمبوسة من أهم المقبلات الرمضانية.

مقبلات سريعة التحضير

— Starters that don't take much time to make.

أبحث عن وصفات مقبلات سريعة التحضير.

مقبلات صحية

— Starters made with healthy ingredients like vegetables.

يفضل الرياضيون المقبلات الصحية.

سعر المقبلات

— The cost of the starter dishes.

سعر المقبلات هنا مرتفع قليلاً.

مقبلات مجانية

— Complimentary starters provided by the host or restaurant.

يقدم المطعم مقبلات مجانية للزبائن.

مقبلات بحرية

— Appetizers made from seafood.

جربنا مقبلات بحرية في الإسكندرية.

مقبلات عالمية

— Appetizers from around the world.

هذا الفندق يقدم مقبلات عالمية.

Souvent confondu avec

مقبلة vs مقابلة

Means 'interview'. Don't say you want to eat an interview!

مقبلة vs مستقبل

Means 'future'. Both share the root Q-B-L.

مقبلة vs مقابل

Means 'opposite' or 'in exchange for'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"كالمقبلات قبل الطعام"

— Used to describe something that is just a small start to something much bigger.

هذا النجاح كالمقبلات قبل الطعام.

Metaphorical

"فتح الشهية"

— To stimulate interest or hunger for more.

كلامه فتح شهيتنا للمشروع.

Common

"أكل بعينيه قبل فمه"

— To enjoy the presentation of the appetizers before eating.

المقبلات جميلة، الإنسان يأكل بعينيه.

Proverbial

"لا يشبع من المقبلات"

— Someone who loves the small things so much they ignore the main goal.

هو لا يشبع من المقبلات في حياته.

Informal

"أول الغيث قطرة"

— The first of the rain is a drop (similar to how appetizers start a meal).

هذه المقبلة هي أول الغيث.

Literary

"على طرف اللسان"

— Something very small and tasty (like a bite of an appetizer).

هذه المقبلة تذوب على طرف اللسان.

Descriptive

"ملح الطعام"

— Something that adds flavor (often said of good appetizers).

المقبلات هي ملح الطعام في هذه السفرة.

Idiomatic

"سيد المائدة"

— The master of the table (often said of a famous appetizer like Hummus).

الحمص هو سيد المائدة.

Cultural

"خفيف على المعدة"

— Light on the stomach (ideal for an appetizer).

هذه المقبلة خفيفة على المعدة.

Common

"يملأ العين"

— Visually satisfying (said of a large spread of appetizers).

هذه المقبلات تملأ العين.

Informal

Facile à confondre

مقبلة vs مقبل

Looks the same without the 'ta marbuta'.

'Muqbil' is an adjective meaning 'coming' or 'next', while 'Muqabbila' is the noun for 'appetizer'.

الشهر المقبل (Next month) vs مقبلة لذيذة (Delicious appetizer).

مقبلة vs مقبلات

Plural vs Singular.

'Muqabbila' is one dish, 'Muqabbilat' is the category or multiple dishes.

هذه مقبلة واحدة vs نحب المقبلات.

مقبلة vs قبل

Root word.

'Qabla' is a preposition meaning 'before'.

قبل الغداء (Before lunch).

مقبلة vs إقبال

Same root.

Means 'demand' or 'interest'.

إقبال كبير على المطعم (High demand for the restaurant).

مقبلة vs تقبيل

Same root.

Means 'kissing'.

تقبيل اليد (Kissing the hand).

Structures de phrases

هذه [مقبلة].

هذه مقبلة.

أريد [مقبلة] [adjective].

أريد مقبلة باردة.

نبدأ الوجبة بـ[مقبلة].

نبدأ الوجبة بمقبلة خفيفة.

تعتبر [dish] [مقبلة] مشهورة.

تعتبر التبولة مقبلة مشهورة.

تعكس الـ[مقبلات] تنوع [culture].

تعكس المقبلات تنوع الثقافة.

تتجلى [quality] في الـ[مقبلة].

تتجلى البساطة في هذه المقبلة.

هل هذه الـ[مقبلة] [adjective]؟

هل هذه المقبلة حارة؟

لا أحب الـ[مقبلات] الـ[adjective].

لا أحب المقبلات المالحة.

Famille de mots

Noms

إقبال (Approaching/Interest)

مقابلة (Interview)

مستقبل (Future)

قبلة (Kiss or Direction)

Verbes

قبل (To accept)

أقبل (To approach)

قابل (To meet)

استقبل (To receive)

Adjectifs

مقبول (Accepted)

مقبل (Coming/Next)

مقابل (Opposite)

Apparenté

مزة

طعام

وجبة

شهية

مطعم

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very common in daily life and menus.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'Muqabala' instead of 'Muqabbila'. → Muqabbila
'Muqabala' means interview, while 'Muqabbila' means appetizer. This is a very common phonetic mistake.
Saying 'مقبلة لذيذ'. → مقبلة لذيذة
The noun is feminine, so the adjective must also be feminine. Add the 'ta marbuta' to the adjective.
Pronouncing 'qaf' as 'kaf'. → Muqabbila (with qaf)
Pronouncing it as 'Mukabbila' might make it sound like a different root related to 'size' or 'magnifying'.
Using 'مقبلة' for a dessert. → تحلية
An appetizer is only for the start of the meal, never the end.
Forgetting the 'shadda' on the letter 'ba'. → مقبّلة
The 'shadda' is essential for the correct weight and meaning of the word in standard Arabic.

Astuces

Feminine Agreement

Always make your adjectives feminine when describing 'مقبلة'. Example: 'مقبلة شهية' not 'مقبلة شهي'.

Sharing is Caring

In the Arab world, appetizers are meant to be shared. Don't be surprised if everyone eats from the same plate!

Plural is King

Learn the plural 'مقبلات' early on, as it is the most frequent form you will encounter.

The Shadda

Don't forget the double 'b' sound. It's 'Mu-qab-bila'. It adds a nice rhythm to your speech.

Restaurant Ordering

Use the phrase 'كمقبلة' (as an appetizer) to tell the waiter you want a dish served first.

Generosity

If you are hosting, serving multiple 'مقبلات' is a great way to show hospitality to your guests.

Root Connections

Connect it to 'Qibla' or 'Mustaqbal' to remember the 'facing/front' meaning.

Mezza vs Muqabbila

Use 'Mezza' in casual settings in the Levant, but 'Muqabbila' for formal ordering.

Spelling

Be careful with the 'qaf' (ق). It's not a 'kaf' (ك). The spelling is 'مقبلة'.

Visual Aid

Visualize a 'Menu' with the word 'مقبلات' at the top to anchor it in your mind.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Muqabbila' as 'Move-a-bit-ahead.' It’s the food that moves ahead of the main course.

Association visuelle

Imagine a waiter 'facing' you (Q-B-L) with a small plate before the big meal arrives.

Word Web

Food Start Hospitality Mezza Hummus Salad Menu Appetizer

Défi

Try to name three Arabic dishes that qualify as a 'Muqabbila' and use them in a sentence today.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Arabic tri-literal root Q-B-L (ق-ب-ل).

Sens originel : To face, to meet, or to be in front of.

Semitic / Afroasiatic.

Contexte culturel

Be aware that 'Muqabbilat' often contain common allergens like sesame (tahini) or nuts.

In English, we say 'appetizer' or 'starter.' The Arabic 'Muqabbila' is closer to the French 'hors d'oeuvre.'

Manal Al Alem's cookbooks Levantine Mezza traditions Ramadan Iftar traditions

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a Restaurant

هل لديكم مقبلات نباتية؟
ما هي المقبلة اليوم؟
أريد مقبلات مشكلة.
هذه المقبلة حارة جداً.

Hosting Guests

تفضلوا بعض المقبلات.
حضرت لكم مقبلات لبنانية.
هل أعجبتكم المقبلة؟
هناك المزيد من المقبلات.

Cooking Class

كيف نحضر هذه المقبلة؟
المكونات بسيطة لهذه المقبلة.
نقطع الخضروات للمقبلة.
نضع المقبلة في الثلاجة.

Ramadan Iftar

نبدأ الإفطار بمقبلات خفيفة.
السمبوسة مقبلة أساسية.
لا تكثر من المقبلات.
تمر وماء ثم مقبلات.

Food Review

المقبلة كانت رائعة.
طريقة تقديم المقبلة مبتكرة.
أنصح بتجربة هذه المقبلة.
المقبلات أفضل من الطبق الرئيسي.

Amorces de conversation

"ما هي المقبلة المفضلة لديك في هذا المطعم؟ (What is your favorite appetizer in this restaurant?)"

"هل تفضل المقبلات الباردة أم الساخنة عادة؟ (Do you usually prefer cold or hot appetizers?)"

"هل تعرف كيف تحضر مقبلة الحمص في البيت؟ (Do you know how to prepare hummus appetizer at home?)"

"ما رأيك في تنوع المقبلات في المطبخ العربي؟ (What do you think of the variety of appetizers in Arabic cuisine?)"

"هل جربت مقبلات غريبة من قبل؟ (Have you tried strange appetizers before?)"

Sujets d'écriture

اكتب عن أفضل مقبلة تذوقتها في حياتك وأين كان ذلك. (Write about the best appetizer you ever tasted and where it was.)

صف مائدة أحلامك، ما هي أنواع المقبلات التي ستضعها؟ (Describe your dream table, what kinds of appetizers would you put?)

لماذا تعتقد أن المقبلات مهمة في الثقافة العربية؟ (Why do you think appetizers are important in Arabic culture?)

اكتب وصفة بسيطة لمقبلة تحبها باللغة العربية. (Write a simple recipe for an appetizer you love in Arabic.)

قارن بين المقبلات في بلدك والمقبلات العربية. (Compare appetizers in your country and Arabic appetizers.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Not exactly. 'Muqabbila' is the formal word for a single appetizer, while 'Mezza' refers to the cultural tradition of serving many appetizers together. You'll see 'Muqabbilat' on a menu.

Usually, 'Muqabbila' is specifically for something eaten at the start of a meal. For a snack between meals, use 'Wajba khafifa' or 'Tasbeera'.

It is feminine, as indicated by the 'ta marbuta' (ة) at the end. Adjectives must match this.

The plural is 'Muqabbilat' (مقبلات). This is actually more common to hear than the singular.

Hummus, Tabbouleh, Baba Ghanoush, Falafel, and Sambousek are all types of 'Muqabbilat'.

Yes, soup is often categorized as a 'Muqabbila' or a 'starter' on menus.

Because the root Q-B-L relates to things that are 'in front' or 'coming next.' The appetizer is the food 'in front' of the meal.

Yes, it is Modern Standard Arabic and is understood and used on menus across the entire Arab world.

The correct pronunciation is 'Muqabbila' with a 'u' sound at the beginning and an 'i' sound after the 'b'.

In many modern cities, people will understand 'starter,' but using 'مقبلات' will definitely be appreciated!

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