متسامح in 30 Seconds
- متسامح (mutasāmiḥ) means forgiving, ready to pardon.
- It describes a person who overlooks mistakes and doesn't hold grudges.
- It's a positive character trait valued in many cultures.
- Use it for people who show leniency and understanding.
- Meaning
- The Arabic adjective 'متسامح' (mutasāmiḥ) describes someone who is forgiving, meaning they are ready and willing to overlook faults, mistakes, or offenses, and to pardon those who have wronged them. It signifies a character trait of leniency and a disposition to let go of resentment or anger.
- Nuance
- Being 'متسامح' goes beyond simply not retaliating. It implies an active choice to show mercy and understanding. It suggests a mature perspective that recognizes human imperfection and the value of maintaining relationships over holding grudges. This quality is highly valued in many cultures, including Arab cultures, where it is often associated with wisdom, nobility, and strong moral character.
- Usage Scenarios
- You would use 'متسامح' to describe a person who readily forgives a friend who made a mistake, a leader who shows leniency towards subordinates, or even a general principle of tolerance and understanding in society. It can be applied to personal interactions, community relations, and even international diplomacy. For instance, a parent might be praised for being 'متسامح' with their child's minor transgressions. Similarly, a community leader who resolves disputes peacefully and with understanding is considered 'متسامح'. In a broader sense, a society that embraces diversity and allows for differing viewpoints can be described as 'متسامح'. It's a positive attribute that reflects a person's or group's capacity for empathy and grace.
- Etymological Connection
- The word 'متسامح' is derived from the root س-م-ح (s-m-ḥ), which carries the core meaning of allowing, permitting, and forgiving. The 'مت-' prefix often indicates a reciprocal or participatory action, suggesting that being 'متسامح' involves an active engagement with the act of forgiving or allowing. This root is also found in words like 'سماح' (samāḥ), meaning permission or tolerance, and 'مسامحة' (musāmaḥah), the act of forgiving. The adjective form 'متسامح' thus encapsulates the essence of actively embodying forgiveness and tolerance.
كان المعلم متسامحًا مع الطلاب الذين تأخروا عن الحصة بسبب ظروف قاهرة.
تعتبر الثقافة العربية بشكل عام متسامحة مع الضيوف.
- Positive Connotation
- 'متسامح' carries a strong positive connotation. It suggests emotional maturity, wisdom, and a compassionate nature. People who are described as 'متسامح' are often admired for their ability to rise above minor grievances and maintain harmony.
- Contrast with Strictness
- It stands in contrast to being overly strict, rigid, or unforgiving. While firmness is sometimes necessary, 'متسامح' highlights the virtue of clemency and understanding, especially when dealing with unintentional errors or minor faults.
- Application in Interpersonal Relationships
- In family and friendships, a 'متسامح' individual is one who doesn't hold onto small arguments or disagreements, fostering a more stable and loving environment. They are the ones who are likely to say, 'It's okay, let's move past this.'
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The most common way to use 'متسامح' is as an adjective describing a person or entity. It follows the noun it modifies and agrees in gender and number. When describing a male person, it remains 'متسامح'. When describing a female person, it becomes 'متسامحة' (mutasāmiḥah). For plural or inanimate objects, context dictates the form, but typically the masculine singular form is used if referring to a group of people or a general concept.
- With Verbs of Being
- It is frequently used with verbs like 'كان' (kāna - was) or 'أصبح' (aṣbaḥa - became) to describe a past state or a change in disposition. For example, 'كان رجلاً متسامحاً' (kāna rajulan mutasāmiḥan - He was a forgiving man). The accusative case ending '-an' is used here because 'متسامحاً' is the predicate of 'كان'.
- Describing Institutions and Groups
- 'متسامح' can also describe groups, organizations, or even abstract concepts like policies or societies. For instance, 'المجتمع المتسامح' (al-mujtamaʿ al-mutasāmiḥ - the tolerant society) or 'سياسة متسامحة' (siyāsah mutasāmiḥah - a tolerant policy). Here, 'متسامح' agrees with the noun it modifies in definiteness and gender.
- In Conditional Sentences
- It can be used in conditional sentences to express the outcome of a forgiving attitude. For example, 'إذا كنت متسامحاً، ستحظى باحترام الناس' (idhā kunta mutasāmiḥan, sa-taḥẓá bi-iḥtirām an-nās - If you are forgiving, you will earn people's respect).
- Expressing a Character Trait
- It is often used to highlight a person's inherent nature. 'هي بطبيعتها متسامحة' (hiya bi-ṭabīʿatihā mutasāmiḥah - She is forgiving by nature). In this case, 'متسامحة' agrees with 'هي' (she).
يجب أن نكون متسامحين مع أخطاء الآخرين.
القائد المتسامح يكسب ولاء جنوده.
- Examples with Different Genders and Numbers
- * Male: هو رجل متسامح (Huwa rajul mutasāmiḥ - He is a forgiving man).
* Female: هي امرأة متسامحة (Hiya imra'ah mutasāmiḥah - She is a forgiving woman).
* Plural (people): هم أشخاص متسامحون (Hum ashkhāṣ mutasāmiḥūn - They are forgiving people). Note the plural form 'متسامحون'.
* Plural (inanimate/abstract): هذه الأفكار متسامحة (Hādhihi al-afkār mutasāmiḥah - These ideas are tolerant). Here, 'متسامحة' agrees with the feminine singular form of the broken plural 'أفكار'. - Using it with Prepositions
- It can be used with prepositions to specify what someone is forgiving of. For example, 'متسامح مع' (mutasāmiḥ maʿa - forgiving towards/with). 'هو متسامح مع أخطائه' (Huwa mutasāmiḥ maʿa akhṭāʾihi - He is forgiving of his mistakes).
- Family and Personal Relationships
- This is perhaps the most common context. You'll hear parents describe themselves or their partners as 'متسامح' towards their children's misbehavior. Friends might praise each other for being 'متسامحة' when one makes a mistake. Discussions about marital harmony or dealing with in-laws often involve this adjective, highlighting the importance of being understanding and forgiving in close relationships.
- Workplace and Leadership
- In professional settings, especially when discussing management styles or team dynamics, 'متسامح' is used to describe leaders who are understanding of employee errors or personal issues. A boss who is 'متسامح' is often seen as fair and approachable, fostering a positive work environment. Conversely, a lack of this trait might be criticized.
- Social and Community Discussions
- When people discuss societal issues, tolerance, and intergroup relations, 'متسامح' is frequently employed. It's used to describe individuals who advocate for understanding between different religious, ethnic, or political groups. Debates about immigration, diversity, and social justice often touch upon the need for a 'متسامح' society.
- Religious and Ethical Teachings
- Religious sermons, ethical discussions, and philosophical texts often emphasize the virtue of being 'متسامح'. It's presented as a noble quality, akin to mercy and compassion, deeply rooted in many faith traditions. The Quran and Hadith, for instance, frequently promote forgiveness and leniency.
- Media and Public Discourse
- News articles, opinion pieces, and public speeches might use 'متسامح' to characterize public figures, political parties, or national policies. For example, a politician might be praised for their 'متسامح' approach to international relations, or a country might be described as 'متسامحة' in its handling of a crisis.
لقد أثنى الناس على القاضي لكونه متسامحًا وعادلاً.
يجب على الآباء أن يكونوا متسامحين مع أطفالهم.
- Everyday Conversations
- In casual conversations, people might use it to describe someone who doesn't get easily upset or holds grudges. 'صديقي متسامح جدًا، فهو لا يغضب من الأشياء الصغيرة.' (My friend is very forgiving, he doesn't get angry over small things.)
- Educational Settings
- Teachers might encourage students to be 'متسامحين' with each other, fostering a classroom environment of understanding and mutual respect. School administrators might also be described as 'متسامحين' in their approach to student discipline.
- Incorrect Gender Agreement
- A very common error for learners is failing to correctly adjust the adjective 'متسامح' for gender. While the masculine singular is 'متسامح', the feminine singular is 'متسامحة'. Forgetting to add the 'ة' (tāʾ marbūṭah) when referring to a female person or a feminine noun is a frequent mistake. For example, saying 'هي رجل متسامح' (Hiya rajul mutasāmiḥ) is incorrect; it should be 'هي امرأة متسامحة' (Hiya imra'ah mutasāmiḥah) or 'هي متسامحة' (Hiya mutasāmiḥah).
- Incorrect Pluralization
- When referring to a group of males, the plural form 'متسامحون' (mutasāmiḥūn) is required. Learners might incorrectly use the singular 'متسامح' or the feminine singular 'متسامحة' when addressing or describing multiple males. For example, saying 'الطلاب متسامح' is wrong; it should be 'الطلاب متسامحون' (Aṭ-ṭullāb mutasāmiḥūn - The students are forgiving).
- Confusing with Similar Words
- Learners might confuse 'متسامح' with words that imply mere tolerance or acceptance without the active element of forgiveness. For instance, confusing it with 'متساهل' (mutasāhil), which means lenient or lax, or 'متقبل' (mutaqabbil), meaning accepting. While related, 'متسامح' specifically emphasizes the act of pardoning after an offense.
- Misunderstanding the Scope of Forgiveness
- Sometimes, learners might overgeneralize the application of 'متسامح'. While it implies a willingness to forgive, it doesn't mean unconditional acceptance of harmful behavior. It's important to understand that being 'متسامح' is a virtue, but it doesn't preclude setting boundaries or holding individuals accountable for serious transgressions. Using 'متسامح' to describe someone who tolerates abuse, for example, would be a misapplication.
- Incorrect Case Endings
- When 'متسامح' functions as the predicate of 'كان' (kāna) or its sisters, it takes the accusative case ending '-an' (mutasāmiḥan). Forgetting this case ending, especially in formal Arabic, can be a mistake. For example, saying 'كان الرجل متسامح' instead of 'كان الرجل متسامحاً'. Similarly, when it's part of a sentence structure that requires a genitive case, it would take '-in' (mutasāmiḥin), though this is less common for this specific adjective in typical usage.
خطأ: هي متسامح.
صواب: هي متسامحة.
- Overuse in Certain Contexts
- While it's a positive trait, overuse without specific context might sound repetitive. It's better to illustrate the forgiving nature through actions or specific examples rather than just labeling someone 'متسامح' repeatedly.
- Using the Verb Form Incorrectly
- Sometimes learners might confuse the adjective with the verb form 'سامح' (sāmaḥa - to forgive). While related, they are different parts of speech. For example, saying 'هو متسامح الفعل' (Huwa mutasāmiḥ al-fiʿl - He is the verb 'to forgive') is grammatically incorrect and nonsensical.
- متساهل (mutasāhil)
- Meaning: Lenient, easygoing, lax.
Difference: While both imply a lack of strictness, 'متساهل' often suggests a tendency to overlook rules or be less demanding, sometimes to the point of being lax. 'متسامح' specifically refers to the willingness to forgive after an offense or mistake. You can be 'متساهل' with rules, but 'متسامح' with people's actions.
Example: المعلم متساهل في تصحيح الواجبات (The teacher is lenient in grading homework) vs. المعلم متسامح مع الطلاب الذين يرتكبون أخطاء بسيطة (The teacher is forgiving towards students who make minor mistakes). - صفوح (ṣafūḥ)
- Meaning: Forbearing, forgiving, pardoning (often implies overlooking faults or shortcomings).
Difference: 'صفوح' is very close in meaning to 'متسامح' and is often used interchangeably, especially in more literary or religious contexts. It carries a strong sense of overlooking faults and pardoning. 'متسامح' is perhaps more common in everyday speech, while 'صفوح' can sound more profound or noble.
Example: الله غفور رحيم وصفوح (God is Forgiving and Merciful and Forbearing). - غافر (ghāfir)
- Meaning: Forgiver, pardoner (active participle of the verb 'غفر' - ghafara, to forgive).
Difference: 'غافر' is the active participle and often used as a noun or an adjective specifically referring to the one who forgives. It's very strongly associated with divine forgiveness (e.g., 'الغافر' - The Forgiver as one of God's names). 'متسامح' describes a person's general disposition or character trait of being forgiving, rather than the act of forgiving itself.
Example: هو غافر لذنوب عباده (He is the forgiver of his servants' sins) vs. هو رجل متسامح في حياته اليومية (He is a forgiving man in his daily life). - مُحتمل (muḥtamil)
- Meaning: Tolerant, patient, enduring.
Difference: 'محتمل' focuses more on the capacity to bear or endure something, or to be tolerant of different opinions or situations without necessarily forgiving an offense. It's about putting up with something. 'متسامح' is about actively pardoning.
Example: شعب محتمل للمشاكل (A people enduring of problems) vs. شعب متسامح مع الاختلافات (A people forgiving of differences). - مُتّسع الصدر (muttasiʿ aṣ-ṣadr)
- Meaning: Broad-chested, magnanimous, patient, tolerant (literally: wide of chest).
Difference: This is an idiomatic expression that conveys a similar sentiment to 'متسامح' but emphasizes magnanimity, patience, and a generous spirit. It suggests someone who is not easily provoked and can handle difficult situations or people with grace. It's a more descriptive phrase than a single adjective.
Example: كان المدير متسع الصدر تجاه شكاوى الموظفين (The manager was magnanimous/patient towards the employees' complaints).
الفرق بين المتسامح والمتساهل: المتسامح يغفر الخطأ، والمتساهل لا يشدد في تطبيق القوانين.
- مُسالم (musālim)
- Meaning: Peaceful, pacifist.
Difference: 'مسالم' relates to peace and non-violence. While a forgiving person might also be peaceful, the concepts are distinct. One can be peaceful without necessarily forgiving a specific wrong, and one can forgive without necessarily being a pacifist. 'متسامح' is about interpersonal grace, while 'مسالم' is about avoiding conflict. - مُتقبّل (mutaqabbil)
- Meaning: Accepting, receptive.
Difference: 'متقبل' means being open to receiving or accepting something, such as ideas, criticism, or people. It's about receptiveness. 'متسامح' is about pardoning and overlooking faults, which is a specific type of acceptance that involves grace after an offense.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The root س-م-ح is fundamental to many concepts in Arabic, including permission ('سماح'), tolerance ('تسامح'), and the act of forgiving ('مسامحة' and 'سامح'). This highlights how forgiveness and allowing are deeply intertwined in the Arabic linguistic and cultural framework.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'ħ' as 'h' or 'k'. It's a throaty sound.
- Incorrect vowel length, especially for the 'aa' sound.
- Misplacing stress on a different syllable.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR A2 level. The concept is straightforward, and the word structure is common for active participles used as adjectives. Learners at this level should be able to comprehend it in simple sentences.
A2 level. The main challenge is correct gender and number agreement, and potentially case endings in more formal contexts.
A2 level. Pronunciation of 'ħ' can be a challenge, but the word is relatively easy to incorporate into basic sentences.
A2 level. Once the pronunciation is familiar, it's relatively easy to identify in spoken Arabic.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement (Gender and Number)
الرجل متسامح (The man is forgiving). المرأة متسامحة (The woman is forgiving). الرجال متسامحون (The men are forgiving).
Predicate of 'كان' (Kana)
كان الرجل متسامحاً. (The man was forgiving.) - Note the accusative ending -an.
Prepositional Phrases with 'مع' (ma'a)
هو متسامح مع أخطائه. (He is forgiving of his mistakes.)
Definite vs. Indefinite Adjectives
رجل متسامح (A forgiving man). الرجل المتسامح (The forgiving man).
Broken Plurals and Adjective Agreement
الأفكار متسامحة. (Ideas are tolerant.) - The adjective agrees with the feminine singular form of the broken plural.
Examples by Level
أنا متسامح.
I am forgiving.
'متسامح' used as a predicate adjective for a male subject.
هي متسامحة.
She is forgiving.
'متسامحة' used as a predicate adjective for a female subject.
الأب متسامح.
The father is forgiving.
'متسامح' describes 'الأب' (father).
الأم متسامحة.
The mother is forgiving.
'متسامحة' describes 'الأم' (mother).
هو متسامح مع أخطائي.
He is forgiving of my mistakes.
'متسامح مع' (forgiving with/towards).
هي متسامحة مع أخطائي.
She is forgiving of my mistakes.
'متسامحة مع' (forgiving with/towards) for a female subject.
كن متسامحاً.
Be forgiving.
Imperative form, masculine singular.
كن متسامحة.
Be forgiving.
Imperative form, feminine singular.
كان الرجل متسامحاً مع جاره.
The man was forgiving towards his neighbor.
'متسامحاً' used with 'كان' (was) in the accusative case.
المعلمة كانت متسامحة مع الطلاب.
The teacher (female) was forgiving towards the students.
'متسامحة' used with 'كانت' (was) for a female subject.
يجب أن تكون متسامحاً مع أخطائك.
You should be forgiving of your own mistakes.
Using 'متسامحاً' with 'تكون' (you are/be).
أهل القرية متسامحون.
The village people are forgiving.
Plural form 'متسامحون' for a group of people.
هي شخصية متسامحة جداً.
She is a very forgiving personality.
'متسامحة' describing 'شخصية' (personality).
نحن نسعى لنكون متسامحين.
We strive to be forgiving.
Plural 'متسامحين' used after 'نكون' (we are/be).
السياسة المتسامحة تجلب السلام.
A tolerant policy brings peace.
'المتسامحة' as an adjective modifying 'السياسة' (policy).
كن متسامحاً لتكسب الأصدقاء.
Be forgiving to win friends.
Imperative, masculine singular, with a purpose clause.
كانت سياستهم متسامحة تجاه الأقليات.
Their policy was tolerant towards minorities.
'متسامحة' modifying 'سياستهم' (their policy).
الشخص المتسامح لا يحمل ضغينة.
A forgiving person does not bear grudges.
'المتسامح' as the subject, referring to a general person.
من صفات القائد الناجح أن يكون متسامحاً.
One of the qualities of a successful leader is to be forgiving.
'متسامحاً' used with infinitive structure 'أن يكون'.
المجتمع الذي يتبنى فكراً متسامحاً يكون أكثر استقراراً.
A society that adopts a tolerant mindset is more stable.
'متسامحاً' modifying 'فكراً' (mindset).
لم يكن متسامحاً مع الأخطاء الجسيمة.
He was not forgiving of grave mistakes.
Negation with 'لم يكن' and 'متسامحاً' in accusative.
إنها تتمتع بقلب متسامح.
She possesses a forgiving heart.
'متسامح' modifying 'قلب' (heart).
المسامحة تتطلب شخصاً متسامحاً.
Forgiveness requires a forgiving person.
'متسامحاً' used in relation to the noun 'المسامحة'.
كانت علاقتهم مبنية على الاحترام المتبادل والتسامح.
Their relationship was built on mutual respect and tolerance/forgiveness.
Implied meaning of forgiveness/tolerance.
أظهرت القيادة المتسامحة قدرة على تجاوز الخلافات.
The forgiving leadership showed an ability to overcome differences.
'المتسامحة' modifying 'القيادة' (leadership).
في الثقافات الشرقية، غالباً ما يُنظر إلى الشخص المتسامح على أنه حكيم.
In Eastern cultures, a forgiving person is often seen as wise.
'المتسامح' as the subject of a passive-like construction.
يتطلب بناء مجتمع متسامح جهوداً مستمرة من الجميع.
Building a tolerant society requires continuous efforts from everyone.
'متسامح' modifying 'مجتمع' (society).
لم يكن من السهل عليه أن يكون متسامحاً بعد كل ما حدث.
It was not easy for him to be forgiving after all that had happened.
Structure 'لم يكن من السهل عليه أن يكون متسامحاً'.
تُعدّ القدرة على التسامح دليلاً على النضج النفسي.
The ability to forgive is evidence of psychological maturity.
Implied meaning of 'متسامح' through the noun 'التسامح'.
كانت دعوته إلى التسامح رسالة قوية للعالم.
His call for forgiveness was a powerful message to the world.
Implied meaning via 'التسامح'.
من الصعب أن نجد شخصاً متسامحاً حقاً في هذا الزمن.
It is difficult to find a truly forgiving person in this era.
'متسامحاً' with adverb 'حقاً' (truly).
إنهم يتبعون نهجاً متسامحاً في التعامل مع المخالفات.
They follow a forgiving approach in dealing with violations.
'متسامحاً' modifying 'نهجاً' (approach).
إن التحلي بروح متسامحة يتطلب قوة داخلية هائلة.
Possessing a forgiving spirit requires immense inner strength.
'متسامحة' modifying 'روح' (spirit).
تاريخ البشرية مليء بأمثلة لشخصيات متسامحة تركت بصمة إيجابية.
Human history is full of examples of forgiving figures who left a positive mark.
'متسامحة' modifying 'شخصيات' (figures/personalities).
كانت خطاباته دائماً تحمل نبرة متسامحة، تدعو إلى الوحدة والتفاهم.
His speeches always carried a forgiving tone, calling for unity and understanding.
'متسامحة' modifying 'نبرة' (tone).
المدارس التي تتبنى منهجاً تربوياً متسامحاً تساهم في بناء جيل واعٍ.
Schools that adopt a tolerant educational approach contribute to building an aware generation.
'متسامحاً' modifying 'منهجاً تربوياً' (educational approach).
في مواجهة الظلم، يبقى السؤال حول ما إذا كان التسامح هو الحل الأمثل.
In the face of injustice, the question remains whether forgiveness is the optimal solution.
Implied meaning via 'التسامح'.
إن الشخص الذي يتجاوز إساءة الآخرين دون أن يحمل ضغينة هو حقاً متسامح.
A person who overcomes others' offenses without bearing grudges is truly forgiving.
'متسامح' used as a predicate adjective with emphasis.
تتطلب الدبلوماسية الفعالة غالباً نهجاً متسامحاً، حتى مع الخصوم.
Effective diplomacy often requires a forgiving approach, even with adversaries.
'متسامحاً' modifying 'نهجاً' (approach).
كانت رؤيته للعالم تتسم بالشمولية والروح المتسامحة.
His worldview was characterized by inclusivity and a forgiving spirit.
'المتسامحة' modifying 'الروح' (spirit).
إن التحدي الأكبر يكمن في تطبيق مبدأ التسامح في أشد الظروف قسوة.
The greatest challenge lies in applying the principle of forgiveness in the harshest circumstances.
Implied meaning via 'التسامح'.
يتطلب الخلاص الروحي غالباً تجاوز الأحقاد الشخصية وتبني موقف متسامح.
Spiritual salvation often requires overcoming personal grudges and adopting a forgiving stance.
'متسامح' modifying 'موقف' (stance).
لطالما تميزت شخصيته بالسمو الأخلاقي والنزعة المتسامحة.
His personality has always been distinguished by moral nobility and a forgiving disposition.
'المتسامحة' modifying 'النزعة' (disposition/tendency).
في خضم الأزمات، تبرز الحاجة إلى قيادات متسامحة قادرة على رأب الصدع.
Amidst crises, the need arises for forgiving leaders capable of mending rifts.
'متسامحة' modifying 'قيادات' (leaderships).
إن الاعتراف بالخطأ هو الخطوة الأولى نحو التسامح الحقيقي.
Admitting fault is the first step towards true forgiveness.
Implied meaning via 'التسامح'.
كانت فلسفته تقوم على إعلاء شأن العفو والتسامح فوق كل اعتبار.
His philosophy was based on elevating pardon and forgiveness above all considerations.
Implied meaning via 'التسامح'.
إن إرثه يتمثل في ترسيخ ثقافة متسامحة تحتفي بالتنوع والاختلاف.
His legacy is in establishing a tolerant culture that celebrates diversity and difference.
'متسامحة' modifying 'ثقافة' (culture).
لا يمكن فصل التنمية المستدامة عن بناء مجتمعات متسامحة ومتقبلة.
Sustainable development cannot be separated from building tolerant and accepting societies.
'متسامحة' modifying 'مجتمعات' (societies).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
'متساهل' means lenient or lax, focusing on being easygoing with rules or demands. 'متسامح' specifically refers to forgiving faults or offenses. You can be 'متساهل' with homework but 'متسامح' with a friend's mistake.
'محتمل' means tolerant or patient, implying the ability to endure or bear something. It's about accepting differences or hardship, whereas 'متسامح' is about actively pardoning an offense.
'صبور' means patient. While patience is often a prerequisite for forgiveness, it's not the same. One can be patient in waiting but still hold a grudge.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'wide-chested', this idiom means magnanimous, patient, and tolerant. It conveys a generous spirit and the ability to handle difficult situations or people with grace, implying forgiveness.
كان المدير متسع الصدر تجاه شكاوى الموظفين، مما زاد من ولائهم.
General, Idiomatic— Kind-hearted. While not directly 'forgiving', a kind-hearted person is often predisposed to be forgiving and understanding.
إنها طيبة القلب، لذلك فهي غالباً ما تكون متسامحة.
General— Does not hold grudges. This phrase directly describes someone who is forgiving and has let go of resentment.
من صفات المؤمن أنه لا يحمل ضغينة تجاه أحد.
General, Religious— Forgives slips/mistakes. This is a more descriptive way of saying someone is forgiving, focusing on the act of pardoning minor faults.
المعلم الجيد يغفر الزلات البسيطة لطلابه.
General— To open a new page; to start fresh. This implies letting go of past grievances and moving forward, which is a result of being forgiving.
بعد الخلاف، قرروا فتح صفحة جديدة.
General— To overlook the matter; to let it go. This phrase describes the action taken by someone who is forgiving.
لقد أخطأت، لكنني سأتجاوز الأمر.
General— His heart is big. Similar to 'متسع الصدر', this implies generosity, magnanimity, and a capacity for forgiveness.
قلبه كبير ويتسع للجميع، حتى لمن أساء إليه.
General— To put things in their proper place; to be rational and fair. This can imply being forgiving by not overreacting or holding onto minor issues.
الشخص العاقل يضع الأمور في نصابها ولا يبالغ.
General— To erase the past. This implies a complete letting go of past hurts, which is a profound form of forgiveness.
لقد قرر أن يمحو الماضي ويبدأ من جديد.
General— To forgive when one has the power to punish. This highlights the virtue of choosing forgiveness over retribution when capable of revenge.
الملوك العظماء هم الذين يعفون عند المقدرة.
Formal, EthicalEasily Confused
Both words imply a lack of strictness and a willingness to overlook things.
'متسامح' is about forgiving people's mistakes or offenses, implying a positive act of pardoning. 'متساهل' is about being lenient or lax, often in applying rules or expectations, and can sometimes imply being too easygoing or not firm enough.
المعلم متسامح مع الطلاب الذين يخطئون، لكنه متساهل في تطبيق قواعد الصف.
Both words mean forgiving and are often used in similar positive contexts.
'متسامح' is the more common, everyday adjective for describing someone who forgives. 'صفوح' is often used in more literary, religious, or formal contexts and can carry a deeper sense of nobility and profound forgiveness, especially when referring to divine attributes.
هو رجل متسامح في حياته اليومية، أما في القرآن فالصفوح صفة لله.
Both words relate to acceptance and dealing with difficult situations.
'متسامح' means actively forgiving an offense or fault. 'محتمل' means tolerant or patient, implying the ability to endure or bear something, or to accept differences without necessarily pardoning a specific wrong. It's about bearing with something rather than pardoning it.
الشعب المتسامح يغفر الأخطاء، بينما الشعب المحتمل يتحمل الصعوبات.
Both are related to the concept of forgiveness.
'متسامح' is an adjective describing a person's character trait of being forgiving. 'غافر' is the active participle of the verb 'to forgive' (غفر), often used as a noun or an attribute, particularly for God ('Al-Ghafir' - The Forgiver). It emphasizes the agent of forgiveness.
الله هو الغافر، وهو أيضاً متسامح مع عباده.
Often, forgiving people are also friendly.
'ودود' means friendly and kind, describing general amiability and warmth. 'متسامح' specifically refers to the willingness to pardon offenses. One can be friendly but not forgiving, or forgiving without being overly effusive in friendliness.
هو ودود مع الجميع، ومتسامح بشكل خاص مع أصدقائه المقربين.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + متسامح/متسامحة
هو متسامح. هي متسامحة.
كان/كانت + Noun + متسامحاً/متسامحةً
كان الرجل متسامحاً. كانت المرأة متسامحةً.
متسامح/متسامحة + مع + Noun
هو متسامح مع أخطائه.
Noun + متسامح/متسامحة/متسامحون
الشخص المتسامح لا يغضب.
صفات + Noun + متسامح/متسامحة
من صفات القائد أن يكون متسامحاً.
Adj + Noun + متسامح/متسامحة
رجل متسامح جداً.
أن يكون + متسامحاً/متسامحةً
من المهم أن تكون متسامحاً.
روح + متسامحة
التحلي بروح متسامحة.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common
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Using the masculine singular form for a female subject.
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هي متسامحة.
The adjective must agree in gender. For females, add the 'ة' (tāʾ marbūṭah). Example: 'هي متسامح' is incorrect; it should be 'هي متسامحة'.
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Using the singular form for a plural subject.
→
الطلاب متسامحون.
For a group of males or a mixed group, use the masculine plural 'متسامحون'. Example: 'الطلاب متسامح' is incorrect; it should be 'الطلاب متسامحون'.
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Confusing 'متسامح' with 'متساهل'.
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هو متسامح مع أخطائه، لكنه متساهل في تطبيق القواعد.
'متسامح' is about pardoning offenses; 'متساهل' is about leniency with rules. The example shows the correct distinction.
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Omitting case endings after 'كان'.
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كان الرجل متسامحاً.
When 'متسامح' is the predicate of 'كان' (was), it takes the accusative case ending '-an'. Example: 'كان الرجل متسامح' is incorrect in formal Arabic.
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Mispronouncing the final 'ħ'.
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Pronounce 'mutasāmiḥ' with a guttural sound at the end.
The 'ħ' is a pharyngeal fricative, distinct from English 'h'. Incorrect pronunciation can make the word difficult to understand.
Tips
Gender and Number Agreement
Remember to adjust 'متسامح' based on the gender and number of the noun it describes. Use 'متسامحة' for feminine singular, 'متسامحون' for masculine plural, and 'متسامحات' for feminine plural.
Mastering the 'ħ'
The final 'ħ' sound is crucial. Practice it by trying to make a raspy sound from the back of your throat. It's different from an English 'h'.
Positive Connotation
'متسامح' is a highly positive adjective. Use it to praise someone's character, particularly their willingness to overlook faults and show mercy.
vs. 'متساهل'
Don't confuse 'متسامح' (forgiving) with 'متساهل' (lenient/lax). Forgiving is about pardoning offenses; leniency is about not being strict with rules.
Word Association
Link 'متسامح' to the English word 'same'. If you can say 'it's the same' and forgive someone, you're being 'mutasāmiḥ'.
Cultural Value
Forgiveness is a highly esteemed virtue in Arab cultures, often linked to wisdom and nobility. 'متسامح' reflects this cultural appreciation.
Predicate of 'كان'
When used with 'كان' (was) or its sisters, 'متسامح' takes an accusative ending: 'كان متسامحاً'.
Synonym: 'صفوح'
For a more literary or religious context, 'صفوح' is a close synonym, often implying a deeper, more noble form of forgiveness.
Sentence Construction
Practice creating sentences describing different people (men, women, groups) and abstract concepts using 'متسامح' and its variations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'same' and 'much'. If someone does something wrong, but you say 'it's the same' and don't care 'much' because you forgive them, you are 'mutasāmiḥ'.
Visual Association
Imagine a person with open arms, receiving someone who has made a mistake, with a gentle smile. The open arms symbolize acceptance and forgiveness, the 'mutasāmiḥ' gesture.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'متسامح' or 'متسامحة' in at least three sentences describing different people or situations you know. Focus on the context where forgiveness is shown.
Word Origin
The word 'متسامح' (mutasāmiḥ) is an active participle derived from the Arabic root س-م-ح (s-m-ḥ). This root is semantically rich and encompasses meanings related to allowing, permitting, yielding, and forgiving.
Original meaning: The core meaning of the root س-م-ح is to grant permission, to allow, or to let go. The active participle form 'mutasāmiḥ' indicates someone who actively embodies these qualities, particularly the act of forgiving.
SemiticCultural Context
Using 'متسامح' implies a positive judgment. It's generally used to praise someone's character. Avoid using it in contexts where it might be misinterpreted as condoning harmful behavior or enabling wrongdoing without consequence.
While 'forgiving' is the direct translation, the cultural weight of 'متسامح' often implies a deeper sense of magnanimity and grace than might be immediately apparent in English usage. It's not just about letting go of an offense, but often about extending understanding and kindness.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Personal relationships (family, friends)
- كن متسامحاً مع أصدقائك.
- هي متسامحة جداً مع أطفالها.
- أنا متسامح مع أخطائك.
Leadership and management
- القائد المتسامح يحظى بالاحترام.
- يجب أن يكون المدير متسامحاً.
- سياسة الشركة متسامحة.
Societal values and ethics
- المجتمع المتسامح هو مجتمع قوي.
- نحتاج إلى روح متسامحة.
- الدعوة إلى التسامح.
Describing character traits
- إنه شخص متسامح.
- تتمتع بقلب متسامح.
- صفاته تشمل كونه متسامحاً.
Religious and philosophical discussions
- التسامح من صفات المؤمنين.
- الله متسامح وغفور.
- فلسفة تقوم على التسامح.
Conversation Starters
"What does it mean to be 'متسامح' in your culture?"
"Can you think of someone you know who is very 'متسامح'?"
"When is it important to be 'متسامح'?"
"What's the difference between being 'متسامح' and being 'متساهل'?"
"How does being 'متسامح' contribute to a peaceful society?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time you were 'متسامح' with someone, or someone was 'متسامح' with you. How did it feel?
Write about a situation where being 'متسامح' was difficult, but ultimately beneficial.
Describe the qualities of a truly 'متسامح' leader or friend.
How can you practice being more 'متسامح' in your daily life?
What are the potential downsides of being too 'متسامح'?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe feminine form of 'متسامح' is 'متسامحة' (mutasāmiḥah). You use this when referring to a female person. For example, 'هي امرأة متسامحة' (She is a forgiving woman).
If you are referring to a group of males or a mixed group, you use the masculine plural form: 'متسامحون' (mutasāmiḥūn). For example, 'هؤلاء الناس متسامحون' (These people are forgiving). If referring to a group of females, you would use 'متسامحات' (mutasāmiḥāt), though 'متسامحون' is often used for mixed groups.
'متسامح' means forgiving, implying the act of pardoning someone's mistake or offense. 'متساهل' means lenient or lax, implying being easygoing with rules or expectations, sometimes to the point of not being strict enough. For example, a teacher might be 'متسامح' with a student who apologizes for being late, but 'متساهل' if they don't check homework thoroughly.
Yes, 'متسامح' can be used to describe abstract concepts or policies. For example, 'سياسة متسامحة' (a tolerant policy) or 'فكر متسامح' (a tolerant mindset). In such cases, it often agrees with the gender of the noun it modifies, e.g., 'متسامحة' for feminine nouns like 'سياسة'.
The opposite of 'متسامح' (forgiving) includes words like 'متشدد' (strict, rigid), 'حقود' (spiteful, resentful), 'منتقم' (vengeful), and 'صارم' (stern, severe).
Yes, 'متسامح' is a relatively common adjective used in both formal and informal Arabic to describe a positive character trait of forgiveness and leniency.
It's pronounced roughly as 'mut-ta-SAA-mih'. The 'ħ' at the end is a guttural sound from the back of the throat, which is key to its correct pronunciation. The stress is on the 'SAA' syllable.
'متسامح' comes from the Arabic root س-م-ح (s-m-ḥ), which relates to meanings of allowing, permitting, and forgiving.
Yes, the concept of forgiveness is central in many religions, including Islam. While 'متسامح' itself is an adjective, the related noun 'تسامح' (tolerance/forgiveness) and the verb 'سامح' (to forgive) are frequently used in religious discussions, often in relation to God's attributes.
While 'forgiving' is the direct translation, 'متسامح' often carries a stronger cultural connotation of magnanimity, grace, and wisdom. It's not just about letting go of a grudge, but about embodying a noble character trait that contributes to social harmony.
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Summary
The adjective 'متسامح' (mutasāmiḥ) describes a person who is forgiving and willing to pardon others' mistakes or offenses. It signifies a positive character trait of leniency and understanding, emphasizing the absence of grudges. For example, 'هو رجل متسامح' means 'He is a forgiving man.'
- متسامح (mutasāmiḥ) means forgiving, ready to pardon.
- It describes a person who overlooks mistakes and doesn't hold grudges.
- It's a positive character trait valued in many cultures.
- Use it for people who show leniency and understanding.
Gender and Number Agreement
Remember to adjust 'متسامح' based on the gender and number of the noun it describes. Use 'متسامحة' for feminine singular, 'متسامحون' for masculine plural, and 'متسامحات' for feminine plural.
Context is Key
While 'متسامح' means forgiving, it's often used to describe a general disposition. Consider the context: is it about forgiving a specific act, or a person's overall character?
Mastering the 'ħ'
The final 'ħ' sound is crucial. Practice it by trying to make a raspy sound from the back of your throat. It's different from an English 'h'.
Positive Connotation
'متسامح' is a highly positive adjective. Use it to praise someone's character, particularly their willingness to overlook faults and show mercy.
Related Content
More family words
عاق
A2Undutiful, especially to parents (disobedient).
اِعْتَنَى
A2To care for, to look after.
عائلي
A2Familial, family-related; relating to a family.
أعزب
A1Single, unmarried (male, alternative).
عضو
A2Member; a person belonging to a group or family.
عم
A1Paternal uncle; the brother of one's father.
عمّ
A2paternal uncle
عمّة
A2paternal aunt
عمة
A1Paternal aunt
عناق
A2Hug, an embrace.
