لكن العاطفة أيضاً مهمة
lakin al-'atifa aydan muhimma
But emotion is also important
Literally: But also the emotion important
In 15 Seconds
- Reminds others that feelings matter in decision-making.
- Balances cold logic with human empathy and connection.
- Used to soften disagreements or add depth to discussions.
Meaning
This phrase is used to remind someone that logic and practical facts aren't everything. It suggests that human feelings and empathy should play a role in a decision or situation.
Key Examples
3 of 6Discussing a job offer with a friend
الراتب ممتاز، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة بالشغل.
The salary is excellent, but emotion is also important in work.
Choosing a gift for a parent
هذا الجهاز عملي، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة بالهدية.
This device is practical, but emotion is also important in a gift.
A manager talking to a team about a layoff
الأرقام واضحة، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة في التعامل مع الموظفين.
The numbers are clear, but emotion is also important when dealing with employees.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Muru'a' (chivalry) often dictates that one should be merciful even when logic dictates otherwise. This phrase is a verbal nod to that ancient code. In Levantine culture, hospitality and 'Karam' (generosity) are emotional duties. Logic might say 'don't spend money on guests,' but the 'Atifa' says otherwise. Egyptians are known for being 'Ibn al-Nakta' (witty) and deeply emotional. They often use 'Al-Gada'ana' (being a stand-up person), which relies heavily on this phrase's logic. In the Gulf, family loyalty ('Al-Faza'a') often overrides bureaucratic logic. This phrase justifies helping a relative even if they don't meet every formal requirement.
The 'Lakinna' Power Move
In a formal debate, use 'Lakinna al-'atifata...' (with the 'a' sound at the end of 'atifa'). It makes you sound like a master of grammar and rhetoric.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for every single decision, people might think you are too emotional to be professional. Save it for the 'human' moments.
In 15 Seconds
- Reminds others that feelings matter in decision-making.
- Balances cold logic with human empathy and connection.
- Used to soften disagreements or add depth to discussions.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as the ultimate 'human' interjection. You use it when a conversation is getting a bit too cold or robotic. It’s like saying, "Hey, I hear your logic, but we aren't machines." It bridges the gap between the head and the heart. In Arabic, عاطفة (emotion) carries a lot of weight. It isn't just about being 'emotional' in a weak way. It's about the value of human connection and empathy. You are basically telling your friend that some things can't be measured by numbers alone.
How To Use It
You usually drop this phrase after someone has listed a bunch of logical reasons for something. Start with بس كمان (but also) to gently pivot the conversation. It’s a soft way to disagree. It doesn't shut the other person down. Instead, it adds a new layer to the discussion. You can use it in a serious debate or a casual chat about what movie to watch. It’s versatile and makes you sound like a very thoughtful speaker. Plus, it shows you care about the 'vibe' of the situation.
When To Use It
Use it when your friend is choosing a job based only on the salary. Use it when your sibling wants to sell an old family car because it's 'inefficient.' It’s perfect for those moments where logic says 'A' but your soul says 'B.' You might use it at a restaurant when someone says the food is overpriced, but you know the atmosphere is magical. It’s also great for texting. If a friend is being too hard on themselves, send this to remind them to be kind to their own heart.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this in a strictly technical environment where precision is life-or-death. If you are fixing a plane engine or doing complex math, don't say بس كمان العاطفة مهمة. Your engineer won't appreciate it! Also, don't use it to win an argument where you are clearly in the wrong. It can sound a bit manipulative if used to dodge accountability. If you forgot to pay the rent, telling your landlord 'emotion is important' probably won't help your case. Keep it for subjective or human-centric decisions.
Cultural Background
Arab culture is deeply rooted in social ties and hospitality. Relationships often trump cold transactions. There is a famous concept that the 'heart' is the center of wisdom, not just the brain. Being called 'insan ali' (a mechanical person) is usually a critique. By saying this phrase, you are tapping into a long tradition of valuing 'Al-Hiss' (feeling) and 'Al-Wafa' (loyalty). It reflects a society where how you make someone feel is just as important as what you actually do for them.
Common Variations
You might hear people say القلب إلو حق (The heart has a right). Another common one is الإنسان مش بس عقل (A human isn't just a brain). If someone is being very stubborn, they might say وين المشاعر؟ (Where are the feelings?). In more formal settings, you might hear يجب مراعاة الجانب الإنساني (The human side must be considered). However, our phrase is the most natural way to say it in daily life.
Usage Notes
The phrase is perfectly balanced for neutral settings. It uses the colloquial 'Bas' (but) and 'Kaman' (also), making it sound warm and approachable rather than stiff and academic.
The 'Lakinna' Power Move
In a formal debate, use 'Lakinna al-'atifata...' (with the 'a' sound at the end of 'atifa'). It makes you sound like a master of grammar and rhetoric.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for every single decision, people might think you are too emotional to be professional. Save it for the 'human' moments.
Body Language
When saying this, a slight tilt of the head and placing your hand over your heart adds immense cultural weight and sincerity.
Examples
6الراتب ممتاز، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة بالشغل.
The salary is excellent, but emotion is also important in work.
Suggesting that job satisfaction matters as much as money.
هذا الجهاز عملي، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة بالهدية.
This device is practical, but emotion is also important in a gift.
Meaning the gift should have sentimental value.
الأرقام واضحة، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة في التعامل مع الموظفين.
The numbers are clear, but emotion is also important when dealing with employees.
Advocating for a compassionate approach in a professional setting.
لا تقسو على نفسك، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة.
Don't be hard on yourself; emotion is also important.
A reminder to practice self-compassion.
بعرف إنه متعب، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة!
I know it's tiring, but emotion is also important!
Justifying a 'logical' mistake with love for the animal.
البيت قديم، بس كمان العاطفة مهمة لذكرياتنا.
The house is old, but emotion is also important for our memories.
Valuing nostalgia over modern convenience.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the phrase.
القرار منطقي، لكن _______ أيضاً مهمة.
The phrase specifically uses 'Al-Atifa' to contrast with 'logic' or 'decision'.
Which response is the most empathetic and uses the phrase correctly?
Colleague: 'We should cancel the party to save $500.'
This option uses the phrase to balance financial logic with team morale.
Complete the dialogue between a father and son.
Son: 'I want to study music, not law.' Father: 'Law is more stable.' Son: 'أعلم ذلك يا أبي، لكن...'
The son is appealing to his passion/emotion over his father's logic.
Match the phrase to the best context.
Where would you most likely hear 'لكن العاطفة أيضاً مهمة'?
This is a classic 'logic vs. heart' scenario.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesالقرار منطقي، لكن _______ أيضاً مهمة.
The phrase specifically uses 'Al-Atifa' to contrast with 'logic' or 'decision'.
Colleague: 'We should cancel the party to save $500.'
This option uses the phrase to balance financial logic with team morale.
Son: 'I want to study music, not law.' Father: 'Law is more stable.' Son: 'أعلم ذلك يا أبي، لكن...'
The son is appealing to his passion/emotion over his father's logic.
Where would you most likely hear 'لكن العاطفة أيضاً مهمة'?
This is a classic 'logic vs. heart' scenario.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot at all. Both men and women use it. In fact, it's often used by male leaders to show they are 'balanced' and 'wise'.
Yes! It's very common in WhatsApp debates or when giving advice to a friend. You can even use the heart emoji ❤️ after it.
'Atifa' is the abstract concept of emotion/affection. 'Mashā'ir' refers to specific feelings (sadness, joy, etc.). This phrase uses 'Atifa' because it's talking about the *concept* of feeling.
In Arabic, 'aydan' (also) usually follows the noun it refers to. Placing it at the end of the sentence is an English-influenced structure that sounds less natural.
Related Phrases
القلب وما يهوى
similarThe heart wants what it wants.
الذكاء العاطفي
builds onEmotional Intelligence (EQ).
المنطق البارد
contrastCold logic.
جبر الخواطر
similarMending hearts/spirits.
