Meaning
Asking for the identification or name of an unknown object.
Cultural Background
In Lebanon and Syria, 'شو هيدا؟' is much more common than the formal 'ما هذا الشيء؟'. Egyptians frequently use 'إيه ده؟' (Eh da?) to mean the same thing. In formal settings, the standard 'ما هذا الشيء؟' is preferred and shows respect.
Gender Matters
If the object is feminine, use 'ما هذه؟' (Ma hadhihi?).
People vs Things
Never use 'ma' for people. It is very rude.
Meaning
Asking for the identification or name of an unknown object.
Gender Matters
If the object is feminine, use 'ما هذه؟' (Ma hadhihi?).
People vs Things
Never use 'ma' for people. It is very rude.
Tone
Use a rising intonation at the end to make it a clear question.
Test Yourself
Select the correct question for an object.
____ ما هذا الشيء؟
'Ma' is for things.
Fill in the missing word.
ما ____ الشيء؟
'Hadha' is the demonstrative for masculine nouns.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You see a strange tool.
Use 'ma' for objects.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ما هذا الشيء؟ B: ____
Answer must identify an object.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises____ ما هذا الشيء؟
'Ma' is for things.
ما ____ الشيء؟
'Hadha' is the demonstrative for masculine nouns.
You see a strange tool.
Use 'ma' for objects.
A: ما هذا الشيء؟ B: ____
Answer must identify an object.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, use 'من هذا؟' instead.
It is neutral and works everywhere.
It means 'the thing'.
Use 'ما هذه الأشياء؟'.
Yes, it is understood everywhere.
Start with 'هذا...' (This is...).
Related Phrases
ما هذا؟
synonymWhat is this?
من هذا؟
contrastWho is this?
ماذا تفعل؟
builds onWhat are you doing?
