إذا فاتك اللحم فعليك بالمرق
idha fatak allahm fa'alayka bilmarq
If you miss the meat, take the broth
Meaning
If you cannot have the best, make do with what is available.
Cultural Background
In the Gulf, hospitality often involves a 'Mandi' or 'Kabsa' where a whole lamb is served. The broth is used to cook the rice, making the rice itself a carrier of the meat's flavor. This gives the proverb a very literal resonance. Egyptians are masters of using proverbs in daily humor. You might hear this proverb used when someone is complaining about a small salary or a modest apartment, often followed by a joke to lighten the mood. In Syria and Lebanon, the 'Marq' is often part of complex stews like 'Kousa Mahshi'. The proverb here emphasizes the importance of the 'essence' of things—even if the form changes, the value remains. In Morocco and Algeria, where Couscous is king, the broth (marqa) is what gives the semolina its life. Missing the meat but having the broth still means you have a flavorful, filling meal.
Use it for Morale
This is a great phrase to use when a team project doesn't go perfectly but still has some success. It shows you are a positive leader.
Don't be Literal
Unless you are actually at a dinner table, people will know you are speaking metaphorically. Don't try to explain that you don't actually like soup!
Meaning
If you cannot have the best, make do with what is available.
Use it for Morale
This is a great phrase to use when a team project doesn't go perfectly but still has some success. It shows you are a positive leader.
Don't be Literal
Unless you are actually at a dinner table, people will know you are speaking metaphorically. Don't try to explain that you don't actually like soup!
The 'Fa' is Key
In written Arabic, never forget the 'Fa' (فـ) before 'Alayka'. It's a hallmark of good grammar.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
إذا فاتك اللحم فعليك بـ_______.
The proverb specifically uses 'Al-Marq' (broth) as the counterpart to 'Al-Lahm' (meat).
Which situation best fits the use of this proverb?
أي موقف يناسب هذا المثل؟
This situation involves accepting a secondary alternative (blue shirt) when the primary choice (red shirt) is unavailable.
Complete the dialogue using the proverb.
أ: 'يا للأسف! لقد بيعت كل تذاكر الحفل.' ب: 'هناك عرض آخر غداً لفرقة مختلفة، هل نذهب؟ _______.'
The context of missing a concert and choosing a different one is a perfect 'Plan B' scenario.
Match the word to its role in the proverb.
صل الكلمة بدورها القواعدي:
All are technically correct, but 'إذا' is the primary conditional particle that sets the stage.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesإذا فاتك اللحم فعليك بـ_______.
The proverb specifically uses 'Al-Marq' (broth) as the counterpart to 'Al-Lahm' (meat).
أي موقف يناسب هذا المثل؟
This situation involves accepting a secondary alternative (blue shirt) when the primary choice (red shirt) is unavailable.
أ: 'يا للأسف! لقد بيعت كل تذاكر الحفل.' ب: 'هناك عرض آخر غداً لفرقة مختلفة، هل نذهب؟ _______.'
The context of missing a concert and choosing a different one is a perfect 'Plan B' scenario.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
All are technically correct, but 'إذا' is the primary conditional particle that sets the stage.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, it is universally understood from Morocco to Iraq, though the pronunciation of 'q' in 'marq' will change (e.g., 'mar' in Cairo, 'marag' in the Gulf).
Usually, it's used for a 'lesser' positive. It's not for a total win, but for a 'win-ish' situation.
'Marq' is specifically the liquid from cooked meat/vegetables (broth), while 'Shorba' is a more general word for any soup.
It depends on the boss. It's a bit informal/folksy. In a very formal board meeting, use the C1/C2 versions mentioned above.
Related Phrases
القناعة كنز لا يفنى
builds onContentment is an inexhaustible treasure.
نصف رغيف خير من لا شيء
synonymHalf a loaf is better than nothing.
الجود من الموجود
similarGenerosity is giving what you have.
العوض ولا القطيعة
similarA small compensation is better than a total cut-off.
