At the A1 level, you only need to know 'Barnāmaj' in its simplest forms. Think of it as 'TV show' or 'daily plan'. When you talk about your day, you might say 'My program today is...' to mean 'My schedule today is...'. You will also see it on television when a presenter says 'Welcome to our program'. It is a basic noun that helps you describe your routine and the media you consume. Focus on the singular form and its association with watching TV or having a simple list of things to do. You don't need to worry about computer programming yet; just think of it as a 'show' or a 'list of activities'. For example: 'I like this program' (أنا أحب هذا البرنامج). It is a masculine noun, so use 'hadha' (this) with it. Learning this word early helps you understand basic schedules and media titles.
At the A2 level, you expand the use of 'Barnāmaj' to include 'computer programs' and 'school schedules'. You should begin to use the plural form 'Barāmij' (بَرَامِج) when talking about multiple shows or different software. You might say 'I use many programs on my computer' or 'The school program is difficult'. At this stage, you should also be able to use it in simple 'Idafa' constructions, like 'Barnāmaj al-yawm' (the program of the day/today's schedule). You are starting to see the word in more contexts, such as at work or in advertisements for software. It's important to remember that it is a masculine word and to pair it with masculine adjectives like 'mufīd' (useful) or 'jadīd' (new). You can also start using verbs like 'shāhada' (to watch) or 'istakhdama' (to use) with it.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'Barnāmaj' in professional and academic settings. You will use it to describe 'training programs' (بَرْنَامَج تَدْرِيبِي), 'political programs' (بَرْنَامَج سِيَاسِي), and 'software applications'. You should understand the difference between 'Barnāmaj' and 'Khitta' (plan), using 'Barnāmaj' for more structured, detailed sequences. You will also encounter it in news reports about government 'programs' to help the economy or environment. Your ability to use the word in more complex sentences should grow, such as 'The government implemented a program to reduce poverty'. You should also be aware of related words like 'Mubarmig' (programmer) and 'Barmajah' (programming/coding), as these are common in modern conversations about technology and careers.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'Barnāmaj' with precision across various domains. You should understand its nuances in technical discussions (software architecture), media studies (broadcast formats), and public policy (social programs). You should be able to discuss the 'implementation' (تنفيذ) or 'development' (تطوير) of a program. You will use it in more abstract ways, such as 'a program of thought' or 'a systematic program for reform'. At this level, you should also be familiar with common collocations like 'Barnāmaj al-amal' (work agenda) and 'Barnāmaj intikhābī' (electoral platform). You can distinguish between 'Barnāmaj' and 'Tatbiq' (app) or 'Manhaj' (curriculum) in a nuanced way. Your sentences will be more complex, involving subordinate clauses and specific technical or formal vocabulary.
At the C1 level, 'Barnāmaj' becomes a tool for sophisticated analysis. You will use it to describe systemic structures in philosophy, linguistics, or high-level administration. You might discuss the 'programmatic' nature of a literary movement or the 'structural programs' of a large-scale economic shift. You should be able to use the word in idiomatic expressions and understand its role in classical and modern literature. Your vocabulary should include derivatives and related technical terms like 'Barmajiyyāt' (software in general) and 'Mubarmag' (programmed/automated). You can engage in deep debates about 'educational programs' vs. 'educational methodologies' and use the word to describe the underlying logic of complex systems. You are also expected to recognize the word in various Arabic dialects, even if you primarily use Modern Standard Arabic.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'Barnāmaj'. You understand its historical etymology from Persian and how it has been integrated into the deepest levels of the Arabic language. You can use it to describe the 'programming' of human behavior in a psychological context or the 'cosmic program' in a philosophical one. You are comfortable using it in highly formal speeches, legal documents, and technical white papers. You can play with the word's meanings in creative writing or poetry, utilizing its associations with order, sequence, and broadcast. You understand the subtle differences in how the word is used in different Arab countries' legal and media systems. Your usage is flawless, including perfect grammatical agreement and the use of rare or highly specific collocations.

بَرْنَامَج in 30 Seconds

  • Barnāmaj means program, software, or schedule.
  • It is used for TV shows, computer apps, and plans.
  • The plural form is 'Barāmij' (broken plural).
  • It is a masculine noun essential for B2 learners.

The Arabic word بَرْنَامَج (Barnāmaj) is a versatile noun that has evolved significantly over centuries, mirroring the transition from classical administration to modern technology. At its core, it refers to a structured plan, a schedule, or a curriculum. However, in the contemporary era, its most frequent applications are found in the realms of computer science (software/application) and media (television or radio broadcast). Understanding this word requires recognizing its multi-faceted nature: it is the 'code' that runs a computer, the 'schedule' that dictates a student's day, and the 'show' that families gather to watch in the evening. In a professional context, it often refers to a 'program of action' or a systematic approach to solving a problem or implementing a policy.

Technological Context
In the world of IT, بَرْنَامَج is the standard term for a computer program or software application. When you download an app on your phone, you are downloading a بَرْنَامَج. Developers are called مُبَرْمِجُون (mubarmigūn), and the act of coding is بَرْمَجَة (barmajah).

هذا الـ بَرْنَامَج يساعدني في تنظيم وقتي اليومي بشكل فعال جداً.

Translation: This program helps me organize my daily time very effectively.
Media and Broadcasting
When flipping through TV channels, each individual show is referred to as a بَرْنَامَج. Whether it is a talk show (بَرْنَامَج حِوَارِي), a news program, or a documentary, the term remains consistent. It implies a scheduled broadcast with a specific theme or purpose.

Furthermore, in political and academic circles, بَرْنَامَج signifies a manifesto or a curriculum. A political party's 'platform' is its بَرْنَامَج اِنْتِخَابِي (electoral program). In universities, the 'degree program' is the بَرْنَامَج الدِّرَاسِي. This breadth of usage makes it one of the most essential nouns for a B2 learner to master, as it bridges the gap between daily life, professional environments, and technical discussions. Its plural form, بَرَامِج (Barāmij), is equally common and follows the broken plural pattern, which is a hallmark of Arabic linguistic structure.

أعلنت الحكومة عن بَرْنَامَج جديد لدعم المشاريع الصغيرة والمتوسطة.

Translation: The government announced a new program to support small and medium enterprises.
Administrative Usage
In office settings, بَرْنَامَج العَمَل refers to the 'work agenda' or 'itinerary'. If you are planning a trip, the sequence of events and visits is your بَرْنَامَج الرِّحْلَة. It suggests a sequence that has been pre-determined and written down.

Using بَرْنَامَج correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that can be modified by adjectives or used in 'Idafa' (possessive) constructions. Because it covers so many domains—tech, media, and planning—the words surrounding it provide the necessary context. For instance, when you say 'Barnāmaj' alone, people might ask, 'What kind of program?' Adding an adjective like تِلْفِزْيُونِي (television) or حَاسُوبِي (computer) clarifies the meaning instantly. In sentence construction, it usually functions as the object of verbs like 'to watch' (شاهد), 'to use' (استخدم), 'to develop' (طوّر), or 'to implement' (نفّذ).

Verb Pairings
Common verbs used with بَرْنَامَج include وَضَعَ (to put/set), as in 'setting a program,' and أَعَدَّ (to prepare), as in 'preparing a broadcast.' In a technical sense, you 'run' a program using the verb شَغَّلَ.

يجب علينا تَحْدِيثُ البَرْنَامَجِ لضمان أمن المعلومات.

Translation: We must update the program to ensure information security.

When discussing schedules, بَرْنَامَج is often the subject of sentences describing time. For example, 'The program starts at five' (يَبْدَأُ البَرْنَامَجُ فِي السَّاعَةِ الخَامِسَةِ). It is also frequently used in the plural بَرَامِج to discuss variety or complexity. In educational contexts, you might hear about بَرَامِج التَّبَادُلِ الثَّقَافِيِّ (cultural exchange programs). Notice how the word remains the anchor while the following noun defines the scope.

هل شاهدت الـ بَرْنَامَج الوثائقي عن تاريخ الأندلس أمس؟

Translation: Did you watch the documentary program about the history of Andalusia yesterday?
Idafa Constructions
The most powerful way to use بَرْنَامَج is in a noun-noun relationship. بَرْنَامَجُ الحَفْلِ (the ceremony program), بَرْنَامَجُ التَّدْرِيبِ (the training program), and بَرْنَامَجُ المَارَاتُون (the marathon schedule) are all examples where the second word specifies the first.

In the modern Arab world, you will encounter بَرْنَامَج everywhere from the newsroom to the IT hub. On news channels like Al Jazeera or Al Arabiya, presenters often introduce their segments by saying, 'In our program today...' (فِي بَرْنَامَجِنَا اليَوْم...). In the bustling tech scenes of Dubai, Riyadh, and Amman, software engineers use the word constantly when discussing application development or system updates. It is a word that bridges the gap between the traditional media of the 20th century and the digital revolution of the 21st.

In the Workplace
If you work in an office, your manager might ask for the بَرْنَامَج الزَّمَنِي (time schedule) for a project. This refers to the timeline or milestones. In HR, they might discuss a بَرْنَامَج تَأْهِيلِي (rehabilitation or orientation program) for new employees.

سأقوم بتحميل بَرْنَامَج جديد لتعديل الصور على جهازي.

Translation: I will download a new program for photo editing on my device.

In educational settings, students and teachers use it to refer to the syllabus or the daily timetable. A student might say, 'My program today is very busy' (بَرْنَامَجِي اليَوْم مُزْدَحِم جِدًّا). It is also used in the context of international aid and development, where organizations like the UN launch a بَرْنَامَج إِغَاثِي (relief program). The word carries a sense of organized effort and systematic planning, making it indispensable in any formal or semi-formal conversation.

يُعتبر هذا الـ بَرْنَامَج من أشهر البرامج الحوارية في الوطن العربي.

Translation: This program is considered one of the most famous talk shows in the Arab world.
In Daily Life
Even in casual settings, friends might ask, 'What is the program for tonight?' (مَا هُوَ بَرْنَامَج السَّهْرَة؟), meaning 'What are the plans for the evening?'. It shows how the word has moved from formal planning to everyday social coordination.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with بَرْنَامَج is confusing it with the word خِطَّة (Khitta), which means 'plan'. While they are related, a خِطَّة is usually a strategy or a single intended action, whereas a بَرْنَامَج is a more detailed, structured, and often recurring sequence of events or a technical system. You 'execute a plan' (نَفَّذَ خِطَّة), but you 'follow a program' (اتَّبَعَ بَرْنَامَجًا). Another common error is using the wrong plural. Some learners try to make it a regular plural (*barnāmajāt), but it must be the broken plural بَرَامِج (Barāmij).

Confusion with 'Application'
Learners often use تَطْبِيق (Tatbiq) and بَرْنَامَج interchangeably. While often correct, تَطْبِيق specifically refers to 'apps' (like on a smartphone), whereas بَرْنَامَج is broader and can include operating systems or complex enterprise software. Using بَرْنَامَج for a simple mobile app is okay, but using تَطْبِيق for a TV show is a major error.

خطأ: هذا الـ تطبيق التلفزيوني ممتع. (Wrong usage for TV show)

Correct: هذا البرنامج التلفزيوني ممتع.

Pronunciation is another area where mistakes occur. The first syllable is 'Bar', not 'Ber'. The 'j' at the end (ج) should be pronounced clearly, as in 'judge'. In some dialects, like Egyptian, it is pronounced as a hard 'g' (Barnāmag), but in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), it is a soft 'j'. Learners should also be careful with the word مُبَرْمِج (Mubarmig - programmer) vs مُبَرْمَج (Mubarmag - programmed). Mixing these up can change the meaning of a sentence from 'I am a programmer' to 'I am programmed'.

تأكد من استخدام الجمع الصحيح: بَرَامِج وليس برنامجونات.

Translation: Make sure to use the correct plural: Barāmij, not 'barnāmajūn'.
Gender Agreement
Since بَرْنَامَج is masculine, don't use feminine adjectives. For example, say بَرْنَامَج جَدِيد (new program) and not بَرْنَامَج جَدِيدَة. This is a basic but frequent mistake for beginners transitioning to intermediate levels.

To truly master Arabic, you must understand the nuances between بَرْنَامَج and its synonyms. While 'Barnāmaj' is the most common word for a program, other words might be more appropriate depending on the level of detail or the specific field. For example, مَنْهَج (Manhaj) is used specifically for an educational curriculum or a methodology. While a 'Barnāmaj' might be the schedule of classes, the 'Manhaj' is the underlying philosophy and content of those classes.

Barnāmaj vs. Khitta
As mentioned, خِطَّة (Khitta) is a 'plan'. A plan is often the 'what' and 'why', while the بَرْنَامَج is the 'how' and 'when'. You might have a plan to improve your Arabic, but your بَرْنَامَج is the specific schedule of studying two hours every morning.

الفرق بين بَرْنَامَج و مَشْرُوع هو أن المشروع له بداية ونهاية محددة.

Translation: The difference between a program and a project (Mashrou') is that a project has a specific start and end.

Another related word is جَدْوَل (Jadwal), which means 'table' or 'schedule'. A جَدْوَل is usually a visual representation of a بَرْنَامَج. For example, your جَدْوَل المَوَاعِيد (appointment schedule) is the list of times, while the بَرْنَامَج is the broader concept of your planned activities. In the technical world, بَرْمَجِيَّات (Barmajiyyāt) is the collective noun for 'software' as a field, whereas بَرْنَامَج is a single piece of software.

نحن نستخدم بَرَامِج متطورة في هذا المَخْبَر.

Translation: We use advanced programs in this laboratory.
Comparison Table
  • Barnāmaj: General program, software, TV show.
  • Tatbiq: Specifically a mobile or functional application.
  • Manhaj: Educational curriculum or academic methodology.
  • Jadwal: A specific timetable or spreadsheet.
  • Khitta: A strategic plan or roadmap.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"أعدت الوزارة برنامجاً شاملاً للإصلاح."

Neutral

"هل أعجبك البرنامج التلفزيوني؟"

Informal

"شو البرنامج اليوم؟"

Child friendly

"هذا برنامج كرتون جميل."

Slang

"عامل برنامج لنفسه."

Fun Fact

It is one of many administrative and technical terms Arabic borrowed from Persian during the Abbasid era when Persian administrative systems were adopted by the Caliphate.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /barˈnaːmadʒ/
US /bɑːrˈnɑːmədʒ/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: bar-NA-maj.
Rhymes With
Damaj (دمج) Namaj (نمج - rare) Faraj (فرج) Daraj (درج) Haraj (حرج) Maraj (مرج) Zajaj (زجاج) Ihraj (إحراج)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the first syllable as 'ber' instead of 'bar'.
  • Shortening the long 'a' in the second syllable.
  • Pronouncing the 'j' as 'zh' (like in 'pleasure') instead of a hard 'j'.
  • Confusing the 'n' and 'm' positions.
  • Adding an extra vowel at the end (e.g., barnamaji).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize once the root is known.

Writing 4/5

Requires remembering the broken plural pattern.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but requires clear 'j'.

Listening 2/5

Very common word, easily heard in media.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

خطة تلفزيون حاسوب وقت عمل

Learn Next

برمجة تطبيق تطوير تحديث بث

Advanced

خوارزمية منهجية استراتيجية هيكلية تشفير

Grammar to Know

Broken Plurals

برنامج -> برامج (Pattern: Fa'ā'il)

Idafa (Possessive)

برنامجُ الحفلِ (The ceremony's program)

Adjective Agreement

برنامجٌ مفيدٌ (Masculine singular agreement)

Non-human Plural Agreement

برامجُ مفيدةٌ (Plural non-human takes feminine singular adjective)

Object Case (Nasb)

شاهدتُ برنامجاً (I watched a program)

Examples by Level

1

هذا بَرْنَامَج جَمِيل.

This is a beautiful program.

Simple demonstrative 'hadha' with a masculine noun.

2

أُشَاهِدُ بَرْنَامَجاً الآن.

I am watching a program now.

The word is the object (Mansub) of the verb 'ushahidu'.

3

مَا هُوَ بَرْنَامَجُ اليَوْم؟

What is today's program?

Idafa construction: Barnāmaj + Al-Yawm.

4

أُحِبُّ هَذَا البَرْنَامَج التِّلْفِزْيُونِي.

I love this television program.

Adjective 'tilfizyunī' follows the noun and matches in gender.

5

البَرْنَامَج يَبْدَأُ فِي السَّاعَةِ السَّادِسَةِ.

The program starts at six o'clock.

The noun is the subject of the sentence.

6

عِنْدِي بَرْنَامَج مُزْدَحِم.

I have a busy program (schedule).

Adjective 'muzdahim' means crowded or busy.

7

هَلْ هَذَا بَرْنَامَج جَدِيد؟

Is this a new program?

Interrogative sentence using 'hal'.

8

اُكْتُبْ البَرْنَامَج هُنَا.

Write the program here.

Imperative verb 'uktub' followed by the object.

1

أَسْتَخْدِمُ بَرْنَامَجاً لِتَعَلُّمِ العَرَبِيَّةِ.

I use a program to learn Arabic.

Using 'li-' (for/to) to show purpose.

2

هَذِهِ بَرَامِج مُفِيدَة جِدّاً.

These are very useful programs.

Plural 'barāmij' is treated as feminine singular for adjectives.

3

بَرْنَامَجُ المَدْرَسَةِ يَبْدَأُ غَداً.

The school program starts tomorrow.

Idafa: Barnāmaj + Al-Madrasah.

4

اشْتَرَيْتُ بَرْنَامَجَ حَاسُوبٍ جَدِيداً.

I bought a new computer program.

Compound noun: Barnāmaj hāsūb.

5

هَلْ تَعْرِفُ بَرْنَامَجَ الرِّحْلَةِ؟

Do you know the trip itinerary?

Barnāmaj used to mean itinerary.

6

البَرْنَامَجُ لَيْسَ صَعْباً.

The program is not difficult.

Negation using 'laysa'.

7

نَحْنُ نُشَاهِدُ بَرَامِجَ كَثِيرَةً.

We watch many programs.

Plural object with matching adjective.

8

أَيُّ بَرْنَامَجٍ تُفَضِّلُ؟

Which program do you prefer?

Using 'ayyu' for selection.

1

يَجِبُ تَحْمِيلُ هَذَا البَرْنَامَجِ لِتَشْغِيلِ المِلَفِّ.

This program must be downloaded to run the file.

Passive-like construction with 'yajibu'.

2

قَدَّمَتِ القَنَاةُ بَرْنَامَجاً عَنْ الحَيَاةِ البَرِّيَّةِ.

The channel presented a program about wildlife.

Verb 'qaddamat' (presented) often used with media.

3

هَذَا البَرْنَامَجُ التَّدْرِيبِيُّ يُطَوِّرُ المَهَارَاتِ.

This training program develops skills.

Adjective 'tadribī' (training).

4

يَحْتَاجُ البَرْنَامَجُ إِلَى تَحْدِيثٍ دَوْرِيٍّ.

The program needs periodic updating.

Verb 'yahtaju' followed by 'ila'.

5

وَضَعَتِ الشَّرِكَةُ بَرْنَامَجاً لِتَوْفِيرِ الطَّاقَةِ.

The company set a program for energy saving.

Using 'wada'at' to mean established or set.

6

بَرْنَامَجُ الحَفْلِ يَتَضَمَّنُ فَقَرَاتٍ مُتَنَوِّعَةً.

The ceremony program includes various segments.

Verb 'yatadammanu' (includes/contains).

7

تَعَلَّمْتُ البَرْمَجَةَ لِأَصْنَعَ بَرَامِجِي الخَاصَّةَ.

I learned programming to make my own programs.

Distinction between 'barmajah' (coding) and 'barāmij' (programs).

8

البَرْنَامَجُ السِّيَاسِيُّ لِلْحِزْبِ وَاضِحٌ.

The party's political program is clear.

Abstract use of the word for 'platform'.

1

تَمَّ تَنْفِيذُ البَرْنَامَجِ بِنَجَاحٍ كَبِيرٍ.

The program was implemented with great success.

Passive construction using 'tamma' + masdar.

2

يُعَانِي البَرْنَامَجُ مِنْ بَعْضِ الثَّغَرَاتِ الأَمْنِيَّةِ.

The program suffers from some security loopholes.

Technical term 'thagarat' (vulnerabilities/loopholes).

3

يَهْدِفُ هَذَا البَرْنَامَجُ إِلَى تَعْزِيزِ التَّعَاوُنِ الدَّوْلِيِّ.

This program aims to enhance international cooperation.

Verb 'yahdifu' (aims) + 'ila'.

4

البَرْنَامَجُ الاِنْتِخَابِيُّ يَرْكُزُ عَلَى القَضَايَا الاِقْتِصَادِيَّةِ.

The electoral program focuses on economic issues.

Adjective 'intikhabī' (electoral).

5

قَامَ المُبَرْمِجُ بِتَعْدِيلِ كُودِ البَرْنَامَجِ.

The programmer modified the program's code.

Using 'qama bi-' for formal action.

6

يُعْتَبَرُ هَذَا البَرْنَامَجُ الأَكْثَرَ شُهْرَةً فِي المِنْطَقَةِ.

This program is considered the most famous in the region.

Superlative construction 'al-akthar shuhrah'.

7

بَرْنَامَجُ العَمَلِ اليَوْمَ مَلِيءٌ بِالاِجْتِمَاعَاتِ.

The work agenda today is full of meetings.

Idafa 'Barnāmaj al-amal'.

8

نَحْنُ بِحَاجَةٍ إِلَى بَرْنَامَجٍ غِذَائِيٍّ مُتَوَازِنٍ.

We need a balanced nutritional program (diet).

Adjective 'ghidha'ī' (nutritional).

1

يَتَطَلَّبُ إِعْدَادُ البَرْنَامَجِ رُؤْيَةً اِسْتِرَاتِيجِيَّةً شَامِلَةً.

Preparing the program requires a comprehensive strategic vision.

Complex subject 'i'dad al-barnāmaj'.

2

انْتَقَدَ المُحَلِّلُونَ البَرْنَامَجَ الحُكُومِيَّ لِتَقَلُّصِ المِيزَانِيَّةِ.

Analysts criticized the government program for budget reduction.

Verb 'antaqada' (criticized).

3

يُشَكِّلُ هَذَا البَرْنَامَجُ حَجَرَ الزَّاوِيَةِ فِي التَّنْمِيَةِ المُسْتَدَامَةِ.

This program constitutes the cornerstone of sustainable development.

Metaphorical use 'hajar al-zawiyah' (cornerstone).

4

تَمَّ دَمْجُ البَرْنَامَجَيْنِ فِي نِظَامٍ وَاحِدٍ مُتَكَامِلٍ.

The two programs were merged into one integrated system.

Dual form 'al-barnāmajayn'.

5

يَعْتَمِدُ البَرْنَامَجُ عَلَى خَوَارِزْمِيَّاتٍ مُعَقَّدَةٍ لِلْغَايَةِ.

The program relies on extremely complex algorithms.

Technical term 'khawarizmiyyat' (algorithms).

6

أَثَارَ البَرْنَامَجُ الوَثَائِقِيُّ جَدَلاً وَاسِعاً فِي الأَوْسَاطِ الثَّقَافِيَّةِ.

The documentary program sparked wide controversy in cultural circles.

Verb 'athara' (sparked/raised).

7

يَسْعَى البَرْنَامَجُ إِلَى تَرْسِيخِ قِيَمِ التَّسَامُحِ.

The program seeks to establish the values of tolerance.

Verb 'yas'a' (seeks) + 'ila'.

8

تَمَّتْ صِيَاغَةُ البَرْنَامَجِ بِدِقَّةٍ لِتَفَادِي أَيِّ لَبْسٍ.

The program was formulated precisely to avoid any ambiguity.

Passive 'tammat siyaghat'.

1

تَتَجَلَّى عَبْقَرِيَّةُ البَرْنَامَجِ فِي قُدْرَتِهِ عَلَى التَّكَيُّفِ الذَّاتِيِّ.

The genius of the program is manifested in its capacity for self-adaptation.

High-level vocabulary 'tatajalla' (manifests).

2

يُمَثِّلُ البَرْنَامَجُ قَفْزَةً نَوْعِيَّةً فِي عَالَمِ الذَّكَاءِ الاِصْطِنَاعِيِّ.

The program represents a qualitative leap in the world of artificial intelligence.

Idiomatic 'qafzah naw'iyyah' (qualitative leap).

3

إِنَّ البَرْنَامَجَ الفَلْسَفِيَّ لِهَذَا الكَاتِبِ يَتَّسِمُ بِالعُمْقِ.

The philosophical program of this writer is characterized by depth.

Abstract use for intellectual framework.

4

تَعَرَّضَ البَرْنَامَجُ لِانْتِقَادَاتٍ لاذِعَةٍ بِسَبَبِ تَوَجُّهَاتِهِ الأَيْدِيُولُوجِيَّةِ.

The program faced stinging criticism because of its ideological leanings.

Adjective 'ladhi'ah' (stinging/biting).

5

يُعَدُّ هَذَا البَرْنَامَجُ نَمُوذَجاً يُحْتَذَى بِهِ فِي الإِدَارَةِ الحَدِيثَةِ.

This program is considered a model to be emulated in modern management.

Idiomatic 'yuhtadha bihi' (to be emulated).

6

تَضَمَّنَ البَرْنَامَجُ بَرَاهِينَ رِيَاضِيَّةً تُثْبِتُ صِحَّةَ النَّظَرِيَّةِ.

The program included mathematical proofs that prove the theory's validity.

Technical 'barahin' (proofs).

7

يَعْكِسُ البَرْنَامَجُ التَّرْبَوِيُّ طُمُوحَاتِ الجِيلِ الجَدِيدِ.

The educational program reflects the aspirations of the new generation.

Verb 'ya'kisu' (reflects).

8

تَمَّ اِخْتِزَالُ البَرْنَامَجِ فِي مَجْمُوعَةٍ مِنَ النِّقَاطِ الجَوْهَرِيَّةِ.

The program was reduced to a set of essential points.

Verb 'ikhtizal' (reduction/simplification).

Common Collocations

برنامج تلفزيوني
برنامج حاسوبي
برنامج العمل
برنامج انتخابي
تحديث البرنامج
برنامج تدريبي
برنامج وثائقي
برنامج سياحي
تطوير البرامج
برنامج المساعدات

Common Phrases

ما هو البرنامج؟

— What is the plan/schedule?

ما هو البرنامج لسهرة الليلة؟

خارج البرنامج

— Something unplanned or off-schedule.

هذه الزيارة كانت خارج البرنامج.

حسب البرنامج

— According to the schedule.

كل شيء يسير حسب البرنامج.

برنامج مكثف

— An intensive program/schedule.

لدينا برنامج مكثف هذا الأسبوع.

برنامج حواري

— A talk show.

هذا أشهر برنامج حواري.

برنامج تشغيل

— Operating system or driver.

برنامج تشغيل الطابعة.

برنامج زمني

— A timeline or time schedule.

يجب الالتزام بالبرنامج الزمني.

برنامج غذائي

— A diet or nutritional plan.

أتبع برنامجاً غذائياً صحياً.

برنامج تعليمي

— An educational program or software.

هذا برنامج تعليمي للأطفال.

برنامج حماية

— Antivirus or protection software.

ثبّت برنامج حماية على جهازك.

Often Confused With

بَرْنَامَج vs خطة

A plan is a strategy; a program is a structured sequence or system.

بَرْنَامَج vs تطبيق

An app is a specific type of program; a program is a broader term.

بَرْنَامَج vs منهج

A curriculum is the academic content; a program is the schedule/structure.

Idioms & Expressions

"برنامج مسطر"

— A strictly defined or drawn-out plan.

نحن نسير وفق برنامج مسطر.

Formal
"على جدول البرنامج"

— On the agenda.

هذا الموضوع ليس على جدول البرنامج.

Neutral
"برنامج حافل"

— A packed or busy schedule.

كان يوماً ذا برنامج حافل.

Literary
"أعاد برمجة"

— To rethink or reorganize one's mind or plans.

يجب أن أعيد برمجة تفكيري.

Metaphorical
"برنامج طوارئ"

— A contingency plan or emergency program.

وضعت الدولة برنامج طوارئ.

Formal
"خارج نطاق البرنامج"

— Beyond the scope of the program.

هذا السؤال خارج نطاق البرنامج.

Academic
"برنامج متكامل"

— A comprehensive or integrated program.

نقدم لكم برنامجاً متكاملاً.

Professional
"برنامج روتيني"

— A routine schedule.

أعيش وفق برنامج روتيني ممل.

Informal
"برنامج عملي"

— A practical program/plan.

نحتاج إلى برنامج عملي وليس نظرياً.

Neutral
"برنامج طموح"

— An ambitious program.

أطلقت الشركة برنامجاً طموحاً للتوسع.

Formal

Easily Confused

بَرْنَامَج vs مبرمج

Looks like Barnāmaj.

Mubarmig is the person (programmer); Barnāmaj is the thing (program).

المبرمج كتب البرنامج.

بَرْنَامَج vs برمجة

Same root.

Barmajah is the action (programming); Barnāmaj is the result (program).

أحب البرمجة.

بَرْنَامَج vs مبرمج

Passive participle.

Mubarmag means 'programmed' (adjective); Barnāmaj is 'program' (noun).

الجهاز مبرمج مسبقاً.

بَرْنَامَج vs جدول

Similar meaning.

Jadwal is a table/timetable; Barnāmaj is the conceptual program.

انظر إلى الجدول.

بَرْنَامَج vs مشروع

Related to work.

Mashrou' is a project with a deadline; Barnāmaj can be ongoing.

هذا مشروع هندسي.

Sentence Patterns

A1

هذا برنامج [صفة].

هذا برنامج جميل.

A2

أستخدم برنامج [اسم].

أستخدم برنامج الحاسوب.

B1

يجب [فعل] البرنامج.

يجب تحديث البرنامج.

B2

يهدف البرنامج إلى [فعل].

يهدف البرنامج إلى مساعدة الفقراء.

C1

تم تنفيذ البرنامج بـ [اسم].

تم تنفيذ البرنامج بدقة.

C2

يعكس البرنامج [اسم] لـ [اسم].

يعكس البرنامج الطموحات للجيل.

B1

ما هو برنامج [اسم]؟

ما هو برنامج الرحلة؟

B2

يعتبر البرنامج [اسم]...

يعتبر البرنامج الأفضل في السوق.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in media, tech, and administration.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'Barnāmajāt' as the plural. Barāmij (بَرَامِج)

    Arabic uses a broken plural for this word, not the regular feminine plural.

  • Saying 'Barnāmaj jadīdah'. Barnāmaj jadīd (بَرْنَامَج جَدِيد)

    Barnāmaj is masculine, so the adjective must be masculine.

  • Using 'Tatbiq' for a TV show. Barnāmaj (بَرْنَامَج)

    Tatbiq only means 'application' in a functional/tech sense, not a broadcast.

  • Pronouncing it 'Bernāmaj'. Barnāmaj (بَرْنَامَج)

    The first vowel is a Fatha (a), not a Kasra (i/e).

  • Confusing 'Mubarmig' with 'Barnāmaj'. Mubarmig is the person, Barnāmaj is the program.

    Learners often mix up the noun and the active participle.

Tips

Learn the Root

The root B-R-M-G is used for everything related to programming. Learning it helps you unlock words like Mubarmig and Barmajah.

Plural Adjectives

Remember that the plural 'Barāmij' is non-human, so it takes feminine singular adjectives (e.g., Barāmij mufīdah).

Media Usage

When watching Arabic news, listen for 'Barnāmajunā' (our program) to identify the show's segments.

Software vs App

Use 'Barnāmaj' for desktop software and 'Tatbiq' for mobile apps to sound more like a native speaker.

Daily Schedule

Use 'Barnāmaj al-yawm' to talk about your daily routine in a structured way.

Spelling

Don't forget the 'alif' in the middle and the 'jeem' at the end. It's a long word but very regular.

Clear J

In MSA, make sure the 'j' is a 'j' and not a 'zh' or 'sh' to be clearly understood.

Agendas

In meetings, use 'Barnāmaj al-ijtima' to refer to the meeting agenda.

Ramadan

Learn about 'Barāmij Ramadan' to engage in cultural conversations during the holy month.

Bar-Name-Age

Think: A 'Bar' where they ask for your 'Name' and 'Age'—that's the 'Program' for entry.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Bar' where you write a 'Name' on a 'Page' (Barnāmaj) to plan your night.

Visual Association

Visualize a TV screen that has a computer code running on it, which is also a list of things to do.

Word Web

Software TV Show Schedule Agenda Curriculum Plan Code Broadcast

Challenge

Try to use 'Barnāmaj' in three different sentences today: one about a TV show, one about your schedule, and one about an app.

Word Origin

The word 'Barnāmaj' is of Persian origin, derived from 'Bar-nāmah'. In Persian, 'bar' means 'on' or 'at', and 'nāmah' means 'letter', 'book', or 'document'.

Original meaning: A written document, a list, or a program of events.

Indo-European (Persian) borrowed into Semitic (Arabic).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but when discussing 'political programs', be aware of the local political climate.

In English, we distinguish between 'program' (US) and 'programme' (UK), but Arabic uses 'Barnāmaj' for both software and broadcasts.

برنامج خواطر (A famous educational show by Ahmad Al Shugairi) البرنامج (Bassem Youssef's famous satirical show) برامج الجزيرة (Al Jazeera's documentary programs)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Television

  • برنامج حواري
  • مقدم البرنامج
  • وقت البرنامج
  • حلقة البرنامج

IT / Software

  • تحميل البرنامج
  • تثبيت البرنامج
  • كود البرنامج
  • تحديث البرنامج

Work / Planning

  • برنامج العمل
  • البرنامج الزمني
  • تعديل البرنامج
  • الالتزام بالبرنامج

Education

  • البرنامج الدراسي
  • برنامج المنح
  • برنامج التبادل
  • برنامج التدريب

Politics

  • البرنامج الانتخابي
  • برنامج الحزب
  • برنامج الإصلاح
  • برنامج المساعدات

Conversation Starters

"ما هو برنامجك المفضل على التلفاز؟"

"هل تستخدم برنامجاً خاصاً لتنظيم مهامك؟"

"ما هو برنامج العمل في شركتك؟"

"هل قرأت البرنامج الانتخابي للمرشحين؟"

"ما هو البرنامج المقترح لرحلتنا القادمة؟"

Journal Prompts

اكتب عن برنامجك اليومي المعتاد وكيف تنظمه.

صف برنامجاً تلفزيونياً أثر فيك بشكل كبير ولماذا.

ما هو البرنامج الحاسوبي الذي لا يمكنك العيش بدونه؟

تخيل أنك تضع برنامجاً سياحياً لصديق يزور بلدك.

اكتب عن أهمية وجود برنامج عمل واضح لتحقيق الأهداف.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can. While 'Tatbiq' is more specific to mobile apps, 'Barnāmaj' is a general term for any software and is widely understood.

The plural is 'Barāmij' (بَرَامِج). It is a broken plural, which is very common in Arabic for this type of noun.

It is a masculine noun. Therefore, you should use masculine demonstratives (hadha) and masculine adjectives (mufīd).

You say 'Barnāmaj Tilfizyunī' (بَرْنَامَج تِلْفِزْيُونِي). You can also just say 'Barnāmaj' if the context is clear.

A 'Khitta' is a strategic plan or goal. A 'Barnāmaj' is the detailed, often technical or scheduled, way that plan is carried out.

You say 'Mubarmig Hāsūb' (مُبَرْمِج حَاسُوب). The word 'Mubarmig' comes from the same root as 'Barnāmaj'.

Yes, 'Barnāmaj Ghidha'ī' (بَرْنَامَج غِذَائِي) is the standard way to say a nutritional program or a diet plan.

Yes, it is used in almost all Arabic dialects, though the pronunciation of the 'j' might change (e.g., 'g' in Egypt).

'Barmajah' is the verbal noun (Masdar) meaning 'programming' or 'coding'.

You can say 'Al-Barnāmaj ya'mal' (The program is working) or 'Al-Barnāmaj qayd al-tashghil' (The program is under operation).

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'Barnāmaj' to mean a TV show.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a computer program.

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writing

Use the plural 'Barāmij' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a work schedule.

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writing

Use the word 'Mubarmig' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about updating software.

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writing

Write a sentence about an electoral program.

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writing

Use 'Barnāmaj Tadribī' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a documentary.

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writing

Use 'Barnāmaj al-rihlah' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about downloading an app.

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writing

Use 'Tanfidh al-barnāmaj' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a talk show.

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writing

Use 'Barnāmaj Ghidha'ī' in a sentence.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about a school program.

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writing

Use 'Barmajah' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a ceremony program.

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writing

Use 'Barnāmaj al-tabadul' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a busy schedule.

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writing

Use 'Barmajiyyat' in a sentence.

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speaking

Talk about your favorite TV program for one minute.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain your daily schedule (Barnāmaj al-yawm).

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss a computer program you use at work or school.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a trip itinerary you would like to follow.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What are the benefits of educational programs?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about a documentary you watched recently.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you feel about political programs?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss the importance of updating software.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a training program you attended.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What is the 'program' for your next weekend?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Do you prefer talk shows or documentaries? Why?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How has programming changed the world?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about a 'diet program' you know about.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe the program of a wedding you attended.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Why is a work agenda important?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about a famous Arabic TV program.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What are the features of a good computer program?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Discuss a 'relief program' in the news.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you organize your 'study program'?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What would your 'dream program' for a TV show be?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to a news intro: 'Welcome to our daily program.' What is the speaker doing?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'I need to update the program on my laptop.' What does the person need?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The itinerary for tomorrow is very busy.' What is the person talking about?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The government launched a new economic program.' What was launched?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'I'm watching a documentary about history.' What is the genre?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The programmer is fixing the code.' Who is working?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'What's the program for tonight?' What is the person asking?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The training program starts at 9 AM.' When does it start?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'This app is very useful.' What word might they use instead of Barnāmaj?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The electoral program was very ambitious.' How was the program described?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'I follow a strict diet program.' What is the person following?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The school program changed this year.' What changed?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'We need to implement the program now.' What action is needed?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'This talk show is very popular.' What is the show type?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'The program is free to download.' Is there a cost?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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