Meaning
Expresses a lack of comprehension or inability to grasp something.
Cultural Background
In the Levant, you will hear 'مش فاهم' much more often than 'لست أفهم'. In the Gulf, 'ما أفهم' is very common. In universities, 'لست أفهم' is preferred for its clarity and formality.
Be polite
Always add 'عذراً' (Excuse me) before saying 'لست أفهم' to soften the blow.
Don't fake it
It is better to admit you don't understand than to nod and cause a mistake.
Meaning
Expresses a lack of comprehension or inability to grasp something.
Be polite
Always add 'عذراً' (Excuse me) before saying 'لست أفهم' to soften the blow.
Don't fake it
It is better to admit you don't understand than to nod and cause a mistake.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
عذراً، ____ أفهم.
Since the subject is 'I' (implied), 'لست' is the correct negative particle.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesعذراً، ____ أفهم.
Since the subject is 'I' (implied), 'لست' is the correct negative particle.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, it is very polite if used correctly.
Yes, it is formal enough.
Related Phrases
هل تفهم؟
similarDo you understand?
أنا لا أفهم
synonymI do not understand.