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B1 adjective #3,500 most common 9 min read

مخصص

mukhassas Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips مخصص in 30 Seconds

Explanation مخصص in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should think of 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ) as a word that means 'for.' Even though you are just starting, you will see this word on signs. Imagine you are in a park and you see a bench with a sign. If the sign says 'مخصص للأطفال' (mukhaṣṣaṣ lil-atfāl), it simply means 'For children.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about the complex grammar. Just remember that 'مخصص لـ' (mukhaṣṣaṣ li...) means 'This thing is for [someone/something].' It helps you know where you can sit, where you can walk, and what things are meant for you. It is a very helpful 'signpost' word for beginners traveling in Arabic-speaking countries.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ) to describe objects and places. You can start making simple sentences like 'هذا الكرسي مخصص لي' (This chair is reserved for me). You should also notice that the word changes slightly if the thing you are talking about is feminine. For example, 'هذه الغرفة مخصصة للدراسة' (This room is designated for study). Here, we add an 'a' sound (ta marbuta) at the end because 'ghurfa' (room) is feminine. You will hear this word often in public transport, restaurants, and shops. It is the polite way to say something is 'reserved' or 'set aside.'

At the B1 level, you can use 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ) in more abstract and professional ways. You are now able to talk about 'allocated budgets' (ميزانية مخصصة) or 'dedicated time' (وقت مخصص). You understand that this word comes from a verb meaning 'to designate.' You can use it to explain the purpose of a tool or a project. For example, 'هذا البرنامج مخصص لتعديل الصور' (This program is designed for editing photos). You also start to see it in digital contexts, where 'مخصص' means 'customized' or 'custom.' This is a key word for intermediate learners to describe functionality and professional organization.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ) in complex sentences and formal writing. You understand the nuance between 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' (designated) and 'khāṣṣ' (special/private). You can use it in passive constructions and understand its role as a passive participle (ism maff'ūl). You might use it in a debate about resource allocation: 'يجب أن تكون هناك موارد مخصصة للتعليم' (There must be resources allocated for education). You are also aware of non-human plural agreement, correctly using 'مخصصة' with plural nouns. Your vocabulary is now rich enough to use this word to describe specific social or legal designations.

At the C1 level, you use 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ) with precision in academic, legal, and technical discourses. You recognize it in high-level literature and official government decrees. You can distinguish it from synonyms like 'muḥaddad' (defined) or 'mu'ayyan' (specific) with ease. You might encounter it in the plural form 'مخصصات' (mukhaṣṣaṣāt), which refers to 'allowances' or 'stipends' in a corporate or governmental context. Your usage reflects an understanding of the word's weight—how it implies an official decision or a strategic earmarking of resources. You can analyze texts where the word describes the 'specialization' of roles within a complex system.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the full semantic range of 'مخصص' (mukhaṣṣaṣ). You use it effortlessly in spontaneous conversation and highly formal prose. You understand its historical and etymological roots in the 'kh-ṣ-ṣ' family and how it relates to concepts of 'khuṣūṣiyya' (privacy/specificity). You can use it to discuss nuanced philosophical concepts, such as 'spaces designated for the sacred' versus the profane. You are also adept at using its related forms, such as the verb 'khaṣṣaṣa' and the verbal noun 'takhṣīṣ,' to describe complex administrative processes. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a tool for precise conceptual mapping.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

مخصص in 30 Seconds

Mukhaṣṣaṣ means designated, allocated, or customized for a specific purpose.
It is a passive participle from the root kh-ṣ-ṣ, meaning 'to make special.'
Commonly used on signs for 'reserved' areas or in professional 'budget' contexts.
Must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies in the sentence.

The Arabic word مخصص (mukhaṣṣaṣ) is a versatile adjective derived from the Form II verb خصّص (khhaṣṣaṣa), which means 'to designate' or 'to allocate.' At its core, the word describes something that has been set aside for a specific purpose, person, or group. In the modern world, you will encounter this word in contexts ranging from 'reserved' parking spots to 'customized' software settings. It carries a sense of intentionality; something isn't just 'special' (which would be خاص - khāṣṣ), but rather it has been actively 'made special' or 'earmarked' for a reason.

Etymological Root: The root is خ-ص-ص (kh-ṣ-ṣ), relating to particularity, specialty, and privacy. The Form II derivation implies an action performed upon an object to give it that specific quality.

In a professional setting, you might hear about a ميزانية مخصصة (mīzāniyya mukhaṣṣaṣa) or an 'allocated budget.' This indicates that the money isn't just available, but has been legally or administratively bound to a specific project. In everyday life, a sign on a bus might say مخصص لكبار السن (mukhaṣṣaṣ li-kibār al-sinn), meaning 'reserved for the elderly.' The word is essential for B1 learners because it moves beyond simple descriptions into the realm of function and organization.

هذا المكان مخصص للموظفين فقط.
Translation: This place is designated for employees only.

Grammatical Function: As a passive participle (اسم مفعول), it functions as an adjective. It must agree with the noun it describes in gender (مخصص vs مخصصة), number, and definiteness.

Furthermore, in the digital age, مخصص is used to translate 'custom' or 'customized.' If you are choosing a 'custom installation' for software, the Arabic interface will likely use the word تثبيت مخصص (tathbīt mukhaṣṣaṣ). This nuance is vital for learners who wish to navigate technical or administrative environments in Arabic-speaking countries. It implies a departure from the standard or the general, moving toward the bespoke and the tailored.

لقد استلمت طرداً مخصصاً لك.
Translation: I received a package designated for you.

Culturally, the concept of 'takhṣīṣ' (designation) is important in Arab hospitality and social structures. There are often areas in homes or public spaces 'mukhaṣṣaṣa' for families or for men, reflecting social norms regarding privacy and gender. Understanding this word helps a learner respect these boundaries and navigate social etiquette more effectively. Whether you are looking for a seat on a train or setting up a specialized account, مخصص is your go-to term for anything that isn't 'one size fits all.'

Using مخصص correctly requires an understanding of Arabic adjective-noun agreement. Since it is an adjective, it follows the noun it modifies. If the noun is feminine, like غرفة (ghurfa - room), the adjective becomes مخصصة (mukhaṣṣaṣa). If the noun is plural and non-human, like أدوات (adawāt - tools), it also takes the feminine singular form مخصصة.

Agreement Example: Masculine: مقعد مخصص (Reserved seat) | Feminine: طاولة مخصصة (Reserved table).

The most common preposition used with مخصص is لـ (li-), which means 'for' or 'to.' This creates the construction 'designated for [X].' For example, مخصص للقراءة (mukhaṣṣaṣ lil-qirā'a) means 'dedicated to reading.' This structure is incredibly productive and can be used to describe rooms, times, budgets, and even digital folders.

هناك وقت مخصص لكل نشاط.
Translation: There is a designated time for every activity.

In more formal or technical writing, you might see مخصص used in the sense of 'customized.' For instance, in an IT context, 'custom settings' are إعدادات مخصصة (i'dādāt mukhaṣṣaṣa). Here, the word emphasizes that the settings were not the default ones but were tailored by or for the user. This usage is common in manuals, software interfaces, and technical reports.

هذه الصناديق مخصصة لإعادة التدوير.
Translation: These bins are designated for recycling.

Syntactic Position: It can be an attributive adjective (The designated seat...) or a predicative adjective (The seat is designated...). In both cases, it must match the noun in state (definite/indefinite).

When discussing finance or government, مخصص is used to describe funds that have been 'appropriated.' For example, المبلغ المخصص للمشروع (al-mablagh al-mukhaṣṣaṣ lil-mashrū') means 'the amount allocated for the project.' This highlights the word's importance in administrative Arabic. It conveys a level of official sanction or formal decision-making that words like 'simple' or 'available' do not.

هل هذا الجزء من الحديقة مخصص للأطفال؟
Translation: Is this part of the garden designated for children?

If you visit an Arabic-speaking country, you will see مخصص everywhere—literally. It is the standard word used on signage to indicate restricted or reserved areas. In airports, you will see signs like ممر مخصص للدبلوماسيين (A lane designated for diplomats). In shopping malls, parking spots will have signs saying موقف مخصص لذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة (Parking designated for people with special needs). These real-world applications make the word one of the most practical adjectives for a traveler or expatriate.

Public Transportation: In metros and buses, look for 'مخصص للسيدات' (Reserved for women) or 'مخصص للعائلات' (Reserved for families).

In the workplace, مخصص appears in emails and official documents. If a manager says, 'This computer is مخصص for your use only,' they are setting a clear boundary. In financial reports, you'll see it in the context of 'budgetary allocations.' It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical world (signs and seats) and the abstract world (budgets and permissions).

هذا المختبر مخصص لأبحاث الكيمياء.
Translation: This lab is dedicated to chemistry research.

Media and news broadcasts also use the word frequently. When a government announces a relief package, the news anchor might say, تم تخصيص مبالغ ضخمة... (Huge amounts were allocated...), using the verbal noun form, or describe the funds as مبالغ مخصصة. It conveys a sense of official action and organized planning. In sports, you might hear about a ملعب مخصص (a dedicated stadium) for a specific final match.

يوجد جناح مخصص لكبار الشخصيات في الفندق.
Translation: There is a wing designated for VIPs in the hotel.

Lastly, in educational settings, you might find a منهج مخصص (a customized curriculum) tailored for specific student needs. This highlights the word's use in describing something that has been adjusted or created to fit a unique profile. Whether it is a physical space, a sum of money, or a digital setting, مخصص signals that someone has made a deliberate choice to link that thing to a specific end.

هذا القميص مخصص لسباقات الجري.
Translation: This shirt is designed for running races.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using مخصص is confusing it with the adjective خاص (khāṣṣ). While both words are translated as 'special' or 'private' in some contexts, they are not interchangeable. خاص refers to something that is inherently private or special (like a 'private school' - مدرسة خاصة), whereas مخصص refers to something that has been *designated* or *allocated* for a specific purpose by someone. If you say 'a special room,' you use خاص; if you say 'a room designated for guests,' you use مخصص.

Mukhaṣṣaṣ vs Khāṣṣ: Khāṣṣ = Special/Private (inherent quality). Mukhaṣṣaṣ = Designated/Allocated (result of an action).

Another common error involves gender agreement, especially with non-human plurals. Many students forget that in Arabic, non-human plurals are treated as feminine singular. Therefore, if you are talking about 'designated seats,' you should say مقاعد مخصصة (maqā'id mukhaṣṣaṣa), not مقاعد مخصصين or مقاعد مخصص. Forgetting that 'a' suffix on the adjective is a hallmark of early intermediate learners.

خطأ: هذه الكتب مخصص للدراسة.
صح: هذه الكتب مخصصة للدراسة.

A third mistake is using the wrong preposition. While 'for' in English often maps to لـ (li-) in Arabic, students sometimes try to use إلى (ila - to) or عن ('an - about) incorrectly. مخصص almost always pairs with لـ. Using the wrong preposition can make the sentence sound unnatural or even change the meaning entirely. Always remember: مخصص لـ....

Finally, learners sometimes confuse مخصص (the adjective) with تخصيص (takhṣīṣ - the noun/verbal noun). تخصيص means 'allocation' or 'specialization.' For example, 'The allocation of funds' is تخصيص المبالغ. If you say 'The funds are allocation,' it makes no sense. Ensure you are using the adjective form when describing a noun and the noun form when describing an action or a concept.

لا تقل: هذا حساب تخصيص.
قل: هذا حساب مخصص.

While مخصص is a powerful word, Arabic offers several alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these differences will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook. The most common similar words are خاص (khāṣṣ), معين (mu'ayyan), and محدد (muḥaddad).

Comparison Table

Mukhaṣṣaṣ: Designated/Allocated (purpose-driven).
Khāṣṣ: Special/Private (identity-driven).
Mu'ayyan: Specific/Certain (identification-driven).
Muḥaddad: Limited/Defined (boundary-driven).

Use معين (mu'ayyan) when you are referring to a 'specific' thing among many, without necessarily implying it was 'set aside.' For example, 'a specific day' is يوم معين. If that day was 'set aside' for a holiday, you might then call it يوم مخصص للاحتفال. Use محدد (muḥaddad) when you want to emphasize that something is 'fixed' or 'defined,' like a 'fixed time' (وقت محدد). While مخصص implies a purpose, محدد implies a limit.

نحتاج إلى ميزانية محددة (fixed) ولكنها مخصصة (allocated) للبحث.

In formal legal or religious contexts, you might encounter موقوف (mawqūf), which refers to something 'endowed' or 'legally tied' to a charitable cause (waqf). While مخصص is general, موقوف is specifically for charitable endowments. Another alternative is ملائم (mulā'im), meaning 'suitable' or 'appropriate.' If something is 'made for' someone because it 'fits' them well, ملائم might be used, though it lacks the 'allocation' sense of مخصص.

هذا البرنامج معدّ (prepared) خصيصاً لك.
Note: 'Mu'add' (prepared) is a close synonym often used for 'designed.'

For technical 'customization,' you might also see مفصل (mufaṣṣal), which literally means 'tailored' (like a suit). While مخصص is common for software, مفصل is used for physical tailoring or highly detailed plans. Choosing between these synonyms depends on whether you want to emphasize the purpose (mukhaṣṣaṣ), the boundary (muḥaddad), the specificity (mu'ayyan), or the craftsmanship (mufaṣṣal).

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"تم اعتماد المبلغ المخصص للمشروع."

Neutral

"هذا الكرسي مخصص لكبار السن."

Informal

"هذا الكوب مخصص لي، لا تلمسه!"

Child friendly

"هذا الركن مخصص للعب بالصلصال."

Slang

"هذا 'الستايل' مخصص لي."

Fun Fact

The same root gives us the word 'Khuṣūṣiyya,' which is the modern Arabic word for 'Privacy,' a concept that evolved from 'being set apart.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mu.xasˤ.sˤasˤ/

US /mu.xɑs.sɑs/

The stress is on the second syllable: mu-KHAS-sas.

Rhymes With

muraṣṣaṣ (studded) mulaṣṣaṣ (stuck) muqaṣṣaṣ (cut) munaṣṣaṣ (stipulated) mu'aṣṣaṣ (founded - rare) muḥaṣṣaṣ (apportioned) mughaṣṣaṣ (choked - rare) muraṣṣaṣ (compacted)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kh' as a simple 'k'.
Failing to double the 'ṣ' (ignoring the shadda).
Pronouncing the 'ṣ' as a light English 's'.
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.
Vocalizing the final 's' too weakly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize once the root is known.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct gender/number agreement.

Speaking 4/5

The emphatic 'ṣ' and 'kh' require practice.

Listening 3/5

Very common in announcements and news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

خاص (Special) كان (Was) لـ (For) هذا (This) مكان (Place)

Learn Next

تخصيص (Allocation) متخصص (Specialist) اختصاص (Specialty) تحديد (Definition) تعيين (Appointment)

Advanced

استحقاق (Entitlement) اعتماد (Accreditation/Budgetinging) حيازة (Possession) نطاق (Scope) منح (Granting)

Grammar to Know

Adjective Agreement

السيارة (f) المخصصة (f).

Non-human Plural Agreement

المقاعد (pl) مخصصة (s.f).

Passive Participle Formation

Form II verb 'Khaṣṣaṣa' becomes 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ'.

Prepositional Linkage

Always use 'li-' after 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' to indicate the recipient.

Definiteness Agreement

مكان مخصص (Indefinite) vs المكان المخصص (Definite).

Examples by Level

هذا مخصص لك.

This is designated for you.

Simple subject-predicate sentence.

مخصص للأطفال.

Reserved for children.

Common sign phrase.

هذا الكرسي مخصص.

This chair is reserved.

Adjective following the noun.

مكان مخصص للسيارات.

A place designated for cars.

Noun-adjective phrase.

هل هذا مخصص لي؟

Is this designated for me?

Interrogative sentence.

مخصص للعائلات.

Reserved for families.

Used with the preposition 'li'.

هذا الطعام مخصص للقطة.

This food is for the cat.

Agreement with masculine 'ta'ām'.

مخصص للمشي.

Designated for walking.

Used with a verbal noun (masdar).

هذه الغرفة مخصصة للاجتماعات.

This room is designated for meetings.

Feminine agreement (ghurfa -> mukhaṣṣaṣa).

هناك موقف مخصص للمعاقين.

There is a parking spot designated for the disabled.

Indefinite noun with adjective.

هذا الكتاب مخصص للمبتدئين.

This book is designed for beginners.

Agreement with masculine 'kitāb'.

الحافلة مخصصة لطلاب المدرسة.

The bus is designated for school students.

Definite noun with feminine adjective.

هل هذه الطاولة مخصصة لنا؟

Is this table reserved for us?

Feminine agreement (ṭāwila).

يوجد وقت مخصص للراحة.

There is a designated time for rest.

Abstract noun usage.

هذه الأدوات مخصصة للحديقة.

These tools are designated for the garden.

Non-human plural agreement (adawāt -> mukhaṣṣaṣa).

هذا المعطف مخصص للمطر.

This coat is designed for rain.

Functional designation.

استخدم الإعداد المخصص في البرنامج.

Use the custom setting in the program.

IT context usage.

تم تخصيص ميزانية مخصصة للمشروع الجديد.

A dedicated budget was allocated for the new project.

Financial context.

هذا المختبر مخصص للأبحاث العلمية.

This lab is dedicated to scientific research.

Professional context.

هل قمت بشراء ثوب مخصص للحفلة؟

Did you buy a dress customized for the party?

Adjective modifying 'thawb'.

هناك جناح مخصص لكبار الشخصيات.

There is a wing designated for VIPs.

Formal designation.

هذه الصناديق مخصصة للأوراق فقط.

These bins are designated for paper only.

Non-human plural agreement.

نحن بحاجة إلى تدريب مخصص للموظفين.

We need customized training for the employees.

Abstract professional usage.

المدرب لديه نظام غذائي مخصص لكل لاعب.

The coach has a customized diet for every player.

Tailored usage.

يجب الالتزام بالمسار المخصص للدراجات.

One must stick to the designated path for bicycles.

Passive participle as an adjective.

هذه المبالغ مخصصة حصرياً لإعادة الإعمار.

These amounts are allocated exclusively for reconstruction.

Use with adverb 'ḥaṣriyyan'.

تم إنشاء موقع إلكتروني مخصص لدعم العملاء.

A dedicated website was created for customer support.

Passive verb + adjective.

هناك معايير مخصصة لتقييم الأداء.

There are specific criteria designated for performance evaluation.

Plural agreement.

الشركة توفر برامج مخصصة حسب الطلب.

The company provides customized programs upon request.

Phrase 'ḥasab al-ṭalab'.

هذا القسم مخصص للكتب النادرة فقط.

This section is reserved for rare books only.

Restrictive designation.

تم توفير سكن مخصص للعمال في الموقع.

Designated housing was provided for workers on site.

Administrative usage.

تلقى المريض علاجاً مخصصاً لحالته.

The patient received a treatment tailored to his condition.

Medical context.

تعتمد الدولة مخصصات مالية ضخمة للتعليم العالي.

The state approves huge financial allocations for higher education.

Plural noun 'mukhaṣṣaṣāt'.

هذا الخطاب مخصص لمعالجة الأزمة الراهنة.

This speech is dedicated to addressing the current crisis.

Rhetorical designation.

تم وضع إطار قانوني مخصص لحماية البيانات.

A specific legal framework was established for data protection.

Legal/Technical usage.

البروتوكول مخصص لتنظيم العلاقات الدبلوماسية.

The protocol is designed to regulate diplomatic relations.

Formal institutional usage.

توجد مرافق مخصصة لذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة في كل مبنى.

There are facilities designated for people with special needs in every building.

Social policy context.

يتم تحليل البيانات عبر خوارزمية مخصصة.

Data is analyzed via a customized algorithm.

High-tech context.

هناك صناديق سيادية مخصصة للاستثمار طويل الأمد.

There are sovereign funds designated for long-term investment.

Economic terminology.

المؤتمر مخصص لمناقشة التغير المناخي.

The conference is dedicated to discussing climate change.

Formal event designation.

إن تفتيت المخصصات المالية قد يؤدي إلى فشل المشروع.

Fragmenting financial allocations might lead to project failure.

Advanced abstract noun usage.

تمت صياغة العقد بلغة مخصصة لتجنب التأويلات.

The contract was drafted in specialized language to avoid misinterpretations.

Nuanced legal context.

هذا الفضاء المعماري مخصص لإثارة الرهبة والتبجيل.

This architectural space is designed to evoke awe and reverence.

Philosophical/Aesthetic usage.

المخصصات العينية تلعب دوراً في الضمان الاجتماعي.

In-kind allocations play a role in social security.

Socio-economic terminology.

المنهج مخصص لتعزيز التفكير النقدي لدى الطلاب.

The curriculum is tailored to enhance critical thinking among students.

Educational theory.

تم استنفاد كافة المخصصات المرصودة لهذه السنة.

All allocations earmarked for this year have been exhausted.

Bureaucratic precision.

هذا النمط من الشعر مخصص للمناسبات الرسمية.

This style of poetry is reserved for official occasions.

Literary register.

تخضع المخصصات السرية لرقابة صارمة.

Secret allocations are subject to strict oversight.

Political/Intelligence context.

Common Collocations

ميزانية مخصصة

وقت مخصص

مكان مخصص

برنامج مخصص

مبلغ مخصص

موقف مخصص

جناح مخصص

مسار مخصص

بحث مخصص

علاج مخصص

Common Phrases

مخصص لـ

— Designated for or reserved for.

هذا مخصص لك.

غير مخصص

— Not designated or not for use.

هذا المكان غير مخصص للجمهور.

بشكل مخصص

— In a customized or specific manner.

تم تصميم الغرفة بشكل مخصص.

مخصصات مالية

— Financial allocations or allowances.

زادت الحكومة المخصصات المالية.

حساب مخصص

— A dedicated account.

افتح حساباً مخصصاً للادخار.

زر مخصص

— A custom button (in UI).

اضغط على الزر المخصص.

تدريب مخصص

— Customized training.

نقدم تدريباً مخصصاً للشركات.

دعم مخصص

— Dedicated support.

ستحصل على دعم مخصص من فريقنا.

استخدام مخصص

— Specific or designated use.

هذا الجهاز للاستخدام المخصص فقط.

مخصص للطوارئ

— Designated for emergencies.

هذا المخرج مخصص للطوارئ.

Often Confused With

مخصص vs خاص

Means 'private' or 'special'; 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' means 'allocated/designated'.

مخصص vs متخصص

Means 'specialist' (a person) or 'specializing in' (active participle).

مخصص vs خصوصي

Often used for 'private' (like a private tutor), whereas 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' is for a specific purpose.

Idioms & Expressions

"على مقاس مخصص"

— Perfectly tailored to fit a situation or person.

هذا الحل جاء على مقاس مخصص لمشكلتنا.

Modern/Metaphorical

"خارج المخصص"

— Going beyond what was allocated or planned.

صرفنا مبالغ خارج المخصص.

Administrative

"في الحيز المخصص"

— Staying within the designated boundaries.

ابقَ في الحيز المخصص لك.

Neutral

"مخصص بالذكر"

— Specifically mentioned (related to 'khaṣṣa').

هو مخصص بالذكر في التقرير.

Formal

"تخصيص لا تعميم"

— A principle of being specific rather than general.

كلامي فيه تخصيص لا تعميم.

Academic

"باسم مخصص"

— Under a specific name/designation.

المبنى مسجل باسم مخصص.

Legal

"ركن مخصص"

— A dedicated corner (metaphor for a niche).

له ركن مخصص في قلبي.

Literary/Poetic

"وقت ميت مخصص"

— Time allocated for doing nothing (slang/modern).

عندي وقت ميت مخصص للتأمل.

Informal

"مخصص للنسيان"

— Destined to be forgotten (poetic).

هذه الذكرى مخصصة للنسيان.

Poetic

"على الرف المخصص"

— Put on a specific shelf (meaning sidelined).

وضعوا المشروع على الرف المخصص.

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

مخصص vs محدد

Both imply something specific.

'Muḥaddad' is about limits/boundaries; 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is about purpose/allocation.

وقت محدد (Limited time) vs وقت مخصص (Allocated time).

مخصص vs معين

Both translate as 'specific' in English.

'Mu'ayyan' identifies one among many; 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' suggests it was made/set for that one.

يوم معين (A certain day) vs يوم مخصص (A designated day).

مخصص vs معدّ

Both mean 'prepared for'.

'Mu'add' focuses on the state of readiness; 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' focuses on the intent of the allocation.

طعام معد (Prepared food) vs طعام مخصص للحمية (Food designated for a diet).

مخصص vs محجوز

Both can mean 'reserved'.

'Maḥjūz' is for temporary bookings (hotel/restaurant); 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is for permanent or functional designations.

طاولة محجوزة (Booked table) vs طاولة مخصصة للأطفال (Table designated for kids).

مخصص vs مفصل

Both can mean 'custom'.

'Mufaṣṣal' is literally tailored (clothing) or detailed; 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is more general for purpose.

تقرير مفصل (Detailed report) vs برنامج مخصص (Custom program).

Sentence Patterns

هذا [Noun] مخصص لـ [Person].

هذا الكرسي مخصص لك.

يوجد [Noun] مخصص لـ [Purpose].

يوجد طريق مخصص للدراجات.

أحتاج إلى [Noun] مخصص لـ [Task].

أحتاج إلى برنامج مخصص للمحاسبة.

تم [Verb] الـ [Noun] المخصص لـ [Group].

تم تجهيز الجناح المخصص للوفود.

تعد [Noun] المخصصة لـ [Concept] ضرورية.

تعد المخصصات المالية للبحث العلمي ضرورية.

إن [Noun] المخصص لـ [Abstract] يتطلب [Noun].

إن الحيز المخصص للنقاش يتطلب هدوءاً.

هل هذا الـ [Noun] مخصص؟

هل هذا المقعد مخصص؟

هذه الـ [Noun] مخصصة لـ [Noun].

هذه الغرفة مخصصة للنوم.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Modern Standard Arabic.

Common Mistakes

هذا الكرسي خاص لي. → هذا الكرسي مخصص لي.
'Khāṣṣ' means private; 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' means designated/reserved.
الأماكن مخصص للطلاب. → الأماكن مخصصة للطلاب.
Non-human plurals (amākin) require a feminine singular adjective (mukhaṣṣaṣa).
هذا مخصص إلى المعلمين. → هذا مخصص للمعلمين.
Use the preposition 'li-' (for), not 'ila' (to).
أنا مخصص في الطب. → أنا متخصص في الطب.
'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is the object (designated); 'Mutakhaṣṣiṣ' is the person (specialist).
تخصيص وقت للدراسة. → وقت مخصص للدراسة.
'Takhṣīṣ' is the noun (allocation); use 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' (adjective) to describe the time.

Tips

Check the Noun

Always look at the noun before 'mukhaṣṣaṣ'. If it's feminine (ends in ta marbuta) or a non-human plural, add 'a' to make it 'mukhaṣṣaṣa'.

Root Recognition

Learn the root Kh-S-S. It will help you understand words like 'khāṣṣ' (special), 'takhṣīṣ' (allocation), and 'akhaṣṣ' (more specific).

The Shadda

When speaking, linger on the 'S' sound. The double 'ṣ' is important for being understood correctly by native speakers.

Look for Signs

When traveling, look for 'مخصص' on signs in malls and airports. It's the best way to see the word in its natural habitat.

Change Your Settings

Change your phone or social media language to Arabic. You will see 'مخصص' used for 'Custom' settings almost immediately.

Use with 'li-'

Whenever you use 'mukhaṣṣaṣ', try to follow it with 'li-' and a noun to practice making full functional phrases.

News keywords

In news broadcasts about the economy, listen for 'mukhaṣṣaṣāt'. It usually means the government is spending money on something specific.

Respect the Sign

In the Middle East, a 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' sign is often more than a suggestion; it's a social or legal rule. Take it seriously.

Special Stash

Remember: Mukhaṣṣaṣ = My Special Stash. It's something set aside just for a specific use.

Formalize Your Arabic

Using 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' instead of just 'li' (for) makes your Arabic sound more professional and precise.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'MU-KHAS-SAS' as 'MUch CASH SAShed away.' It sounds like you are 'sashing' or setting aside 'much cash' for a specific 'special' purpose.

Visual Association

Imagine a velvet rope in front of a VIP chair with the word 'MUKHASSSAS' written in gold on the rope. It's 'set aside' and 'special.'

Word Web

Special Allocated Reserved Custom Private Earmarked Dedicated Specific

Challenge

Try to label five things in your house today using 'مخصص لـ'. For example, put a note on your coffee mug: 'مخصص للقهوة'.

Word Origin

From the Arabic root خ-ص-ص (Kh-S-S), which primarily relates to the idea of being 'particular' or 'exclusive.' This root is ancient and central to Semitic concepts of property and distinction.

Original meaning: The original sense involved 'singling something out' from a group or making something 'private.'

Afroasiatic -> Semitic -> Central Semitic -> Arabic.

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' areas (for families/women) are social boundaries that should be respected in many Arab countries.

In English, we use 'Reserved' for seats, 'Allocated' for money, and 'Custom' for software. Arabic uses 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' for all three.

The term 'Al-Mukhāṣṣaṣ' is the title of a famous 11th-century Arabic dictionary by Ibn Sidah. Used in modern government budgets (Al-Mīzāniyya al-Mukhaṣṣaṣa). Commonly found in UN documents translated into Arabic regarding 'Allocated resources'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Public Transportation

مقعد مخصص
مقطورة مخصصة للنساء
باب مخصص للخروج
مكان مخصص للحقائب

Finance/Business

ميزانية مخصصة
مخصصات الأرباح
حساب مخصص للطوارئ
مبلغ مخصص للتسويق

Technology

إعداد مخصص
تثبيت مخصص
بحث مخصص
قالب مخصص

Education

منهج مخصص
وقت مخصص للمراجعة
مختبر مخصص للكيمياء
قاعة مخصصة للمحاضرات

Social Etiquette

مكان مخصص للعائلات
مجلس مخصص للضيوف
هدية مخصصة
دعوة مخصصة

Conversation Starters

"هل هذا المكان مخصص للانتظار؟ (Is this place designated for waiting?)"

"كيف يمكنني الحصول على برنامج مخصص لعملي؟ (How can I get a program customized for my work?)"

"هل هناك وقت مخصص للأسئلة بعد المحاضرة؟ (Is there a designated time for questions after the lecture?)"

"أين الموقف المخصص لسيارات الأجرة؟ (Where is the parking designated for taxis?)"

"هل هذه الوجبة مخصصة للنباتيين؟ (Is this meal designed for vegetarians?)"

Journal Prompts

Write about a room in your house that is 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' for a specific hobby.

Describe how you manage your 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' time during a busy workday.

If you could have a 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' robot, what specific tasks would it be designed for?

Reflect on a time you felt 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' (special/singled out) for a reward or a task.

Discuss the importance of having 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' areas for people with disabilities in your city.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, yes, when you want to specify what it is designated for. However, it can stand alone if the context is clear, such as 'This seat is reserved' (هذا المقعد مخصص).

It is rare to describe a person as 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' unless you mean they are 'assigned' to a specific task in a very formal or humorous way. Use 'متخصص' (specialist) for people.

'Khāṣṣ' is 'special' or 'private' (e.g., private life). 'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is 'designated' (e.g., money designated for a car). Think of 'mukhaṣṣaṣ' as the result of an action.

Yes, it is used in most dialects, though sometimes replaced by 'khāṣṣ' or 'l-' in very casual speech. In Egyptian, you might hear 'makhsūs' (specially for).

'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' is the standard word for 'custom' or 'customized' in software and product descriptions.

The plural 'mukhaṣṣaṣāt' often refers to financial allowances, stipends, or budget allocations.

'Mukhaṣṣaṣ' (with 'a') is the passive participle (designated). 'Mukhaṣṣiṣ' (with 'i') would be the active one (one who designates), but it is rarely used.

As an adjective, it follows the noun. For non-human plurals, use 'mukhaṣṣaṣa'. For the noun 'allocation', use 'mukhaṣṣaṣāt'.

Yes, 'ذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة' is more common, but you will see 'مخصص لذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة' on signs for facilities.

No, for 'dedicated' to a person in a relationship, use 'mukhliṣ' (loyal) or 'mutafānin' (devoted).