نفقة in 30 Seconds
- Financial obligation for support.
- Covers living costs for family/spouse.
- Often legally mandated (alimony, child support).
- Distinct from general expenses.
The Arabic word نفقة (nafaqah) refers to the financial costs associated with maintaining oneself or one's dependents. It's a broad term that can encompass daily living expenses, but it is most commonly used in contexts related to legal or familial obligations of financial support. Think of it as the money required to keep someone living, especially when there's a duty to provide that support. This often comes up in discussions about marriage, divorce, and child-rearing, where one party might be legally or morally obligated to provide for the other. It’s not just about buying food; it’s about the entire cost of sustaining a person’s livelihood. In a legal setting, نفقة can refer to alimony payments after a divorce or financial support for children. In a broader sense, it can also mean the general expenses of running a household or a business, though this usage is less frequent in everyday conversation compared to its specific meaning of personal or familial support. The core idea is always about the outflow of money to meet essential needs.
- Key Concepts
- Financial Obligation: Often implies a duty to pay.
- Maintenance: Covers basic living costs.
- Support: Primarily used for family members (spouse, children).
When a couple divorces, the court often determines the amount of نفقة the husband must pay to his ex-wife and children.
In many Arab cultures, there is a strong emphasis on familial responsibility, and the concept of نفقة is deeply ingrained in social and legal practices. It ensures that dependents are cared for, reflecting societal values of compassion and support within families. The specific legal framework and cultural expectations surrounding نفقة can vary between different countries and regions, but the fundamental principle of providing financial sustenance remains consistent. This word is crucial for understanding discussions related to family law, personal finance within a family unit, and social welfare systems in Arabic-speaking communities.
Using نفقة correctly involves understanding its context, which typically revolves around financial support and obligations. You'll frequently encounter it in formal settings like legal documents, court proceedings, and discussions about marital rights and responsibilities. However, it also appears in more general conversations about family finances, especially when discussing the costs of raising children or supporting a spouse. The verb form associated with providing نفقة is often 'أنفق' (anfaqa - to spend, to provide financially) or 'يُنفق' (yunfiqu - he spends/provides). The noun 'إنفاق' (infaaq) means spending or expenditure in general. When referring to the specific obligation, نفقة is the direct term. For instance, a father might be discussing the نفقة required for his child's education, or a woman might be inquiring about her right to نفقة after a separation. The amount of نفقة is usually determined by factors such as income, standard of living, and the needs of the recipient. It's important to note that while نفقة can broadly mean expenditure, its most specific and common meaning relates to the financial maintenance of dependents. For example, 'تحدد المحكمة نفقة الأطفال' translates to 'The court determines the children's financial support.' Another common construction is 'تجب نفقة الزوجة على زوجها' which means 'The wife's financial support is incumbent upon her husband.' When discussing general spending that isn't related to support obligations, words like 'مصاريف' (masareef - expenses) or 'تكاليف' (takaleef - costs) might be more appropriate. However, when the expenditure is specifically for the maintenance of a person or persons one is obligated to support, نفقة is the precise term. Consider the sentence: 'لم يتمكن من دفع نفقة أبنائه في الوقت المحدد' (He was unable to pay his children's support on time). This clearly illustrates the obligation aspect. In legal contexts, it's the standard term for alimony and child support. Even in everyday conversations, if someone is struggling to cover the costs of their family, they might mention the burden of 'نفقة العائلة' (family expenses/support). The word carries a weight of responsibility and necessity.
The lawyer explained the legal requirements for providing نفقة to the divorced spouse.
- Grammatical Notes
- نفقة is a feminine noun. It is often used in the construct state (إضافة - idafa) with the person or entity receiving the support, e.g., نفقة الأطفال (children's support), نفقة الزوجة (wife's support).
- It can also be used with prepositions like 'على' (on/upon) to indicate who is responsible for providing it, e.g., نفقة على الأبناء (support for the children).
You will most frequently encounter the word نفقة in legal and familial contexts within Arabic-speaking societies. Specifically, it's a cornerstone term in family law. This means you'll hear it discussed in:
- Courts and Legal Offices: Lawyers, judges, and clients discussing divorce settlements, child custody cases, and alimony. The specific amount and terms of نفقة are often the subject of heated debates and legal rulings.
- Family Discussions: During conversations about marital issues, separations, or when discussing the financial responsibilities of parents towards their children. It might be brought up when a parent is unable to meet their obligations or when discussing the costs of raising a family.
- News and Media: Reports on family law reforms, high-profile divorce cases, or social issues related to poverty and family support often use نفقة.
- Religious Sermons and Fatwas: Islamic scholars may discuss the religious obligation of providing نفقة for one's family, drawing on Quranic verses and Hadith.
- Social Services and NGOs: Organizations that provide support to families or advocate for women's and children's rights will use this term when discussing financial aid and maintenance.
For example, a news report might state: 'أصدرت المحكمة قراراً بزيادة نفقة الأطفال' (The court issued a decision to increase the children's financial support). In a family setting, someone might say: 'أنا أحاول جاهداً توفير نفقة أسرتي' (I am trying hard to provide for my family's expenses). The term is also used when discussing the financial upkeep of elderly parents or other dependent relatives, although the primary association is with spouses and children. Understanding نفقة is key to grasping discussions about financial responsibilities within families and the legal frameworks that govern them in the Arab world. It’s a word that carries significant social and legal weight, directly impacting the lives of individuals and families.
The news anchor reported on the new legislation concerning the نفقة for single mothers.
Learners often make a few common mistakes when using or understanding the word نفقة. The most frequent error is treating it as a general term for any kind of spending or expense. While نفقة does mean expenditure, its specific and most common usage is tied to the obligation of providing financial support for dependents.
- Mistake 1: Using it for General Expenses
- Incorrect: 'اشتريت نفقة جديدة للسيارة.' (I bought a new nafaqah for the car.)
Correct: 'اشتريت قطعة غيار جديدة للسيارة.' (I bought a new spare part for the car.) or 'دفعت تكاليف صيانة السيارة.' (I paid for the car maintenance costs.)
Explanation: The word 'نفقة' implies support for living beings, not for inanimate objects like car parts. For general expenses, 'مصاريف' (masareef) or 'تكاليف' (takaleef) are more appropriate. - Mistake 2: Confusing it with Charity
- Incorrect: 'أعطيت نفقة للفقراء.' (I gave nafaqah to the poor.)
Correct: 'أعطيت صدقة للفقراء.' (I gave charity to the poor.) or 'قدمت مساعدة مالية للفقراء.' (I provided financial aid to the poor.)
Explanation: While both involve giving money, نفقة is typically a legally or morally binding obligation towards specific individuals (family), whereas 'صدقة' (sadaqah) is voluntary charity given out of goodwill or religious duty to the needy in general. - Mistake 3: Overgeneralizing its Legal Scope
- Incorrect: Assuming any financial payment made during a divorce is called نفقة.
Correct: Understanding that نفقة specifically refers to the maintenance support for the ex-spouse and children, not necessarily other shared assets or debts.
Explanation: While divorce settlements involve various financial arrangements, نفقة is the term for ongoing support payments. Other payments might be related to property division or debt settlement.
Using نفقة for car repairs is like calling a salary 'rent money'; the context is wrong.
While نفقة (nafaqah) is the most precise term for financial support obligations, especially in legal and familial contexts, several other Arabic words relate to spending and costs. Understanding these distinctions is key to using the language accurately.
- نفقة (nafaqah)
- Meaning: Financial support for dependents (alimony, child support). Implies an obligation.
- Usage: Legal, familial, formal contexts. Specific to maintenance costs for people.
- Example: 'تجب نفقة الأطفال على الأب.' (The father is obligated to provide financial support for the children.)
- مصاريف (masareef)
- Meaning: Expenses, costs, expenditures. A general term for money spent.
- Usage: Very common, can refer to personal, household, or business expenses. Less formal than نفقة when referring to support obligations.
- Example: 'لدي الكثير من مصاريف الدراسة هذا الشهر.' (I have many study expenses this month.)
- تكاليف (takaleef)
- Meaning: Costs, charges, expenses. Often implies a more significant or fixed expense.
- Usage: Used for larger expenses like projects, services, or events. Can also be used for personal costs.
- Example: 'تكاليف الزواج مرتفعة جداً.' (The costs of marriage are very high.)
- إنفاق (infaaq)
- Meaning: Spending, expenditure. Refers to the act or process of spending money.
- Usage: Can be general spending, but also related to government budgets or economic spending. The verb form is 'أنفق' (anfaqa).
- Example: 'الإنفاق الحكومي على التعليم زاد هذا العام.' (Government spending on education increased this year.)
- مؤونة (mu'unah)
- Meaning: Provisions, supplies, sustenance, especially food and necessities for a period of time. Can also imply maintenance.
- Usage: Often refers to stocking up on food or essential supplies for a family or household. Can have a sense of provision for future needs.
- Example: 'اشترت الأم مؤونة الشتاء.' (The mother bought winter provisions.)
While 'مصاريف' covers general expenses, نفقة specifically addresses the financial duty to support someone.
How Formal Is It?
"تُلزم القوانين الأسرية رب الأسرة بدفع <strong>نفقة</strong> مناسبة لأفراد عائلته."
"يجب أن نوفر <strong>نفقة</strong> كافية لتعليم أطفالنا."
"يا أخي، لازم تدفع <strong>نفقة</strong> العيال."
"بابا بيعطي فلوس عشان ناكل ونلعب."
Fun Fact
The same root ن-ف-ق is also related to words like 'نفق' (nafaq), meaning tunnel or passage, suggesting the idea of something passing through or being consumed. This connection highlights the core concept of depletion or outflow associated with the root.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'q' sound: Learners might substitute it with 'k' or 'g'. The 'q' is a unique Arabic sound produced at the back of the throat.
- Vowel length: Incorrectly lengthening the short 'a' vowels can alter the word's sound.
- Stress placement: Placing stress on the wrong syllable can make the word difficult to understand.
Difficulty Rating
Recognizing 'نفقة' in B1-level texts, especially in legal or family contexts, is achievable. Understanding its nuances requires exposure to more complex sentences and varied scenarios found in B2 and C1 materials.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The Idafa construction (إضافة) in Arabic, used to show possession or relationship. For example, 'نفقة الأطفال' (nafaqat al-atfal) means 'the children's support'.
بيت الرجل (bayt ar-rajul - the man's house); نفقة الزوجة (nafaqat az-zawjah - the wife's support).
The use of prepositions like 'على' (on/upon) to indicate responsibility or obligation. For example, 'نفقة على الأبناء' (nafaqah 'ala al-abnaa') means 'support for the children'.
المسؤولية على الأكبر. (Al-mas'uliyyah 'ala al-akbar - The responsibility is on the eldest).
Verb conjugations related to 'أنفق' (to spend), such as 'أنفق' (he spent), 'تنفق' (she spends), 'سينفق' (he will spend).
هو أنفق المال. (Huwa anfaqa al-mal - He spent the money). هي ستنفق على المشروع. (Hiya satunfiqu 'ala al-mashroo' - She will spend on the project).
The concept of feminine nouns in Arabic, and how adjectives and verbs agree with them. 'نفقة' is feminine.
النفقة الكبيرة. (Al-nafaqah al-kabirah - The large support). النفقة واجبة. (Al-nafaqah wajibah - The support is obligatory).
The use of definite and indefinite articles (al-/ـٌـٍـٌـ) with nouns.
نَفَقَةٌ (a support). النَّفَقَةُ (the support).
Examples by Level
أنا بحاجة إلى المال.
I need money.
كم سعر هذا؟
How much is this?
أدفع الفاتورة.
I pay the bill.
هذا كثير جداً.
This is too much.
أريد شراء طعام.
I want to buy food.
هل لديك نقود؟
Do you have cash?
هذا رخيص.
This is cheap.
أحتاج مساعدة مالية.
I need financial help.
يجب أن أدفع إيجار المنزل هذا الشهر.
I must pay the house rent this month.
كم تبلغ تكلفة الدراسة في الجامعة؟
How much does studying at university cost?
أنا أعمل لتغطية نفقاتي.
I work to cover my expenses.
هل يمكنك مساعدتي في دفع هذه الفاتورة؟
Can you help me pay this bill?
أريد أن أرسل بعض المال إلى عائلتي.
I want to send some money to my family.
هناك الكثير من المصاريف غير المتوقعة.
There are many unexpected expenses.
أدخر المال لشراء سيارة جديدة.
I am saving money to buy a new car.
يجب أن ننفق بحكمة.
We must spend wisely.
تحدد المحكمة نفقة الأطفال بعد الطلاق.
The court determines the children's financial support after divorce.
Focus on the legal context of 'نفقة'.
يجب على الأب أن يوفر نفقة زوجته وأبنائه.
The father must provide financial support for his wife and children.
'نفقة' implies an obligation towards family members.
لم يتمكن من دفع نفقة أطفاله في الوقت المحدد.
He was unable to pay his children's support on time.
Highlights the timing and obligation aspect of 'نفقة'.
تختلف قيمة نفقة الزوجة حسب دخل الزوج وظروف المعيشة.
The amount of spousal support varies depending on the husband's income and living conditions.
'نفقة' is determined by specific factors.
تعتبر نفقة الأقارب واجباً دينياً واجتماعياً.
Financial support for relatives is a religious and social duty.
Connects 'نفقة' to broader societal and religious values.
الجد يلتزم بدفع نفقة أحفاده.
The grandfather is obliged to pay financial support for his grandchildren.
Shows 'نفقة' can extend to other family members.
تساعد نفقة الأم المطلقة في تغطية احتياجات أطفالها.
Alimony for a divorced mother helps cover her children's needs.
Specific application of 'نفقة' for a divorced mother.
كانت نفقة العائلة عبئاً ثقيلاً عليه.
The family's financial support was a heavy burden on him.
Emphasizes the financial burden associated with 'نفقة'.
تستند تقديرات نفقة الأطفال إلى معايير قانونية واقتصادية محددة.
Estimates for child support are based on specific legal and economic criteria.
Highlights the structured approach to determining 'نفقة'.
يُمكن تعديل نفقة الزوجة في حال تغير الظروف المعيشية بشكل كبير.
Spousal support can be adjusted if living conditions change significantly.
Introduces the concept of modification of 'نفقة'.
تُعتبر نفقة التعليم حقاً أساسياً للطفل.
Educational support is considered a fundamental right for a child.
Positions 'نفقة' for education as a right.
رفض الأب دفع نفقة إضافية لمصاريف المدرسة.
The father refused to pay additional support for school expenses.
Shows a refusal to pay 'نفقة' for specific items.
تتضمن نفقة المعيشة تكاليف السكن والغذاء والمواصلات.
Living expenses (nafaqah) include costs for housing, food, and transportation.
Details the components typically covered by 'نفقة'.
قد تُفرض نفقة مؤقتة لحين صدور حكم نهائي في قضية الطلاق.
Temporary support may be imposed pending a final divorce judgment.
Explains the concept of temporary 'نفقة'.
تُعد نفقة الوالدين المسنين مسؤولية أخلاقية واجتماعية.
Financial support for elderly parents is a moral and social responsibility.
Extends 'نفقة' to the care of elderly parents.
يجب على الزوج الموسر أن يتحمل نفقة زوجته كاملة.
A wealthy husband must bear his wife's full financial support.
Highlights the 'wealthy' aspect influencing 'نفقة'.
تخضع آلية احتساب نفقة الأطفال لقوانين الأحوال الشخصية المعمول بها في الدولة.
The mechanism for calculating child support is subject to the personal status laws in force in the country.
Emphasizes the legal framework governing 'نفقة' calculation.
غالباً ما تتضمن اتفاقيات الطلاق بنوداً مفصلة حول نفقة الطرف الأضعف اقتصادياً.
Divorce agreements often include detailed clauses regarding the financial support of the economically weaker party.
Focuses on the contractual nature and economic disparity in 'نفقة'.
يثير الجدل حول مقدار نفقة الأبناء تساؤلات حول العدالة الاجتماعية.
The debate surrounding the amount of child support raises questions about social justice.
Connects 'نفقة' debates to broader social justice issues.
تُحسب نفقة الزوجة المعلقة على أساس مستوى معيشتها السابق.
The support for a 'suspended' wife is calculated based on her previous standard of living.
Explains the basis for calculating 'نفقة' for a wife.
تُعتبر نفقة التعليم الجامعي ضرورة في سوق العمل التنافسي.
University education support is considered a necessity in the competitive job market.
Highlights the importance of educational 'نفقة' in today's economy.
تتطلب نفقة الوالدين المسنين رعاية شاملة تتجاوز الدعم المادي.
Financial support for elderly parents requires comprehensive care beyond material aid.
Expands the definition of 'نفقة' for parents to include holistic care.
يُمكن للقاضي أن يأمر بنفقة استثنائية في حالات خاصة.
A judge can order exceptional support in special circumstances.
Introduces the concept of exceptional 'نفقة'.
تُفصل نفقة الحضانة عن نفقة المتعة في بعض الأنظمة القانونية.
Custody support is separated from 'mut'ah' (consolatory gift) support in some legal systems.
Distinguishes types of support within legal frameworks.
تُعدّ قضايا نفقة الأبناء من أكثر القضايا تعقيداً في محاكم الأحوال الشخصية نظراً لتشابك العوامل الاجتماعية والاقتصادية.
Child support cases are among the most complex in personal status courts due to the entanglement of social and economic factors.
Emphasizes the intricate nature of 'نفقة' cases.
تتبنى بعض التشريعات الحديثة مقاربات مبتكرة لضمان استدامة نفقة الأسر المتضررة من الأزمات الاقتصادية.
Some modern legislations adopt innovative approaches to ensure the sustainability of financial support for families affected by economic crises.
Discusses modern legislative approaches to 'نفقة' sustainability.
تختلف الاعتبارات الفقهية والقانونية المتعلقة بنفقة الزوجة غير العاملة من مذهب إلى آخر.
The jurisprudential and legal considerations related to the support of a non-working wife vary from one school of thought to another.
Highlights the varying interpretations of 'نفقة' across different legal/religious schools.
يُشكل تقييم نفقة الأطفال ذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة تحدياً يتطلب خبرات متعددة التخصصات.
Assessing child support for children with special needs presents a challenge requiring multidisciplinary expertise.
Addresses the specialized needs in calculating 'نفقة' for children with disabilities.
تُعنى دراسات نفقة الأسرة بتحديد آليات فعالة لتوزيع الأعباء المالية بين الشريكين.
Family support studies focus on identifying effective mechanisms for distributing financial burdens between partners.
Focuses on the academic study of 'نفقة' distribution.
تتطلب نفقة الأصول المشتركة بعد الانفصال معالجة قانونية دقيقة لضمان الإنصاف.
The financial support related to joint assets after separation requires precise legal handling to ensure fairness.
Explains 'نفقة' in the context of shared assets post-separation.
تُعتبر نفقة التعليم العالي استثماراً طويل الأمد في مستقبل الفرد والمجتمع.
Higher education support is considered a long-term investment in the future of the individual and society.
Frames educational 'نفقة' as a societal investment.
يُمكن الطعن في قرارات نفقة بناءً على أدلة جديدة أو تغييرات جوهرية في الظروف.
Support decisions can be appealed based on new evidence or fundamental changes in circumstances.
Discusses the appeal process for 'نفقة' rulings.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Legally mandated financial support, often referring to Islamic law principles.
يجب على الزوج تأدية <strong>النفقة الشرعية</strong> لزوجته.
— Living expenses or the cost of maintaining one's livelihood.
<strong>نفقة المعيشة</strong> تزداد يوماً بعد يوم.
— Financial support for a wife, often referring to alimony or maintenance during or after marriage.
حتى بعد الطلاق، تستحق الزوجة <strong>نفقة زوجية</strong>.
— Financial support specifically for education costs.
تلتزم الأسرة بتوفير <strong>نفقة تعليمية</strong> لأبنائها.
— Financial support for medical expenses.
تُغطي <strong>النفقة العلاجية</strong> تكاليف المستشفى.
— To bear or be responsible for the financial support.
هو من يتحمل <strong>نفقة</strong> العائلة بأكملها.
— To request or demand financial support.
قدمت الزوجة <strong>طلباً للنفقة</strong> أمام المحكمة.
— The amount or value of the financial support.
لم تكن <strong>قيمة النفقة</strong> كافية لتغطية الاحتياجات.
— Stability or regularity of the financial support payments.
تسعى الأم لضمان <strong>استقرار النفقة</strong> لأطفالها.
— Inability to pay the required financial support.
يعاني الكثيرون من <strong>العجز عن دفع النفقة</strong>.
Often Confused With
While both relate to spending, 'مصاريف' is a general term for expenses, whereas 'نفقة' specifically implies a financial obligation for support, usually towards family members.
'تكاليف' refers to costs, often for services, projects, or significant purchases. 'نفقة' is more about the ongoing maintenance and living expenses of individuals.
'إنفاق' is the act of spending. 'نفقة' is the specific expenditure or the amount spent for support.
Idioms & Expressions
— To spend money on oneself; to maintain oneself financially. This usage is less common for 'نفقة' and more often 'ينفق على نفسه'.
هو قادر على نفقة نفسه دون مساعدة.
General— He doesn't spend a penny; he is extremely stingy. This idiom uses 'ينفق' (to spend) rather than the noun 'نفقة', but relates to expenditure.
جاره بخيل جداً، لا ينفق فلسًا.
Informal— To spend money extravagantly or wastefully. Again, uses the verb form 'ينفق'.
كان يُنفِق المال ببذخ على الكماليات.
General— Spending money for the sake of God; charitable giving. This relates to the concept of spending for a higher purpose.
الصدقات نفقة في سبيل الله.
Religious— Provisions or expenses accumulated over years, often implying a long-term need for financial upkeep.
كانت نفقة السنين التي قضاها في الدراسة عبئاً.
Figurative— He has no financial support; he is not entitled to or receiving any maintenance payments.
بعد انفصاله، لم يعد له نفقة.
Legal/General— Financial support for someone who is absent or missing.
تُكفل نفقة الغائب من أمواله المتروكة.
Legal— To spend from one's own private money. Focuses on the source of funds.
يُنفِق من ماله الخاص لتغطية هذه المصاريف.
General— Provision or funds set aside for future needs.
يجب أن نضع نفقة للمستقبل.
Financial Planning— Financial support required out of necessity.
تُمنح نفقة الضرورة في الحالات الطارئة.
Legal/EmergencyEasily Confused
Both words relate to money being spent.
'نفقة' carries a strong connotation of obligation and support for dependents, often legally or morally mandated. 'مصاريف' is a general term for any expenses, like groceries, bills, or entertainment, without the implication of a specific duty towards another person.
أدفع <strong>نفقة</strong> أطفالي (I pay my children's support) vs. لدي <strong>مصاريف</strong> كثيرة هذا الشهر (I have many expenses this month).
Both refer to costs and expenditures.
'تكاليف' often refers to specific, sometimes one-off, costs associated with a service, product, or project (e.g., 'تكاليف الزواج' - wedding costs, 'تكاليف الدراسة' - study costs). 'نفقة' is primarily for ongoing living expenses and maintenance of a person or persons.
<strong>تكاليف</strong> بناء المنزل مرتفعة. (The costs of building the house are high) vs. <strong>نفقة</strong> العائلة أساسية. (Family support is essential).
Both derive from the same root and relate to spending money.
'إنفاق' is the verb or the general act of spending. 'نفقة' is the noun referring to the specific expenditure or the amount of money required for support. You 'تُنفق' (spend) 'نفقة' (support).
هو يُنفق المال ببذخ. (He spends money extravagantly) vs. هو يدفع <strong>نفقة</strong> زوجته. (He pays his wife's support).
Very similar in meaning, often used interchangeably in legal contexts.
While both mean financial support, 'إعالة' often emphasizes the act of providing sustenance or looking after someone's needs, while 'نفقة' specifically refers to the monetary amount or the financial obligation itself. 'نفقة' is more commonly used in legal judgments for specific sums.
المحكمة أمرت ب<strong>إعالة</strong> الأطفال. (The court ordered the support of the children) vs. المحكمة حددت <strong>نفقة</strong> شهرية للأطفال. (The court set a monthly support amount for the children).
Both relate to provisions and maintenance.
'مؤونة' refers more to provisions, supplies, or stocking up on necessities, especially food, for a period. 'نفقة' is strictly about the financial expenditure for maintenance and living costs, often as a regular obligation.
اشترينا <strong>مؤونة</strong> للشتاء. (We bought provisions for the winter) vs. يدفع <strong>نفقة</strong> شهرية لزوجته. (He pays monthly support to his wife).
Sentence Patterns
أنا بحاجة إلى [نفقة]
أنا بحاجة إلى نفقة بسيطة.
يجب على [فاعل] دفع [نفقة] لـ [مستلم]
يجب على الأب دفع نفقة للأطفال.
المحكمة تحدد [نفقة]
المحكمة تحدد نفقة الزوجة.
تختلف [نفقة] حسب [عامل]
تختلف نفقة الأطفال حسب دخل الأب.
تتضمن [نفقة] [عناصر]
تتضمن نفقة المعيشة الطعام والسكن.
تخضع آلية احتساب [نفقة] لـ [قوانين]
تخضع آلية احتساب النفقة لقوانين الأحوال الشخصية.
تُعتبر [نفقة] حقاً [صفة]
تُعتبر نفقة التعليم حقاً أساسياً.
تُعدّ قضايا [نفقة] من أكثر القضايا [صفة]
تُعدّ قضايا نفقة الأطفال من أكثر القضايا تعقيداً.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High (especially in contexts related to family law and obligations)
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Using 'نفقة' for general expenses like buying groceries or clothes.
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Use 'مصاريف' (masareef) or 'تكاليف' (takaleef) for general expenses.
'نفقة' specifically implies a financial obligation to support someone, especially family members, and is often legally mandated. General spending does not carry this connotation.
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Confusing 'نفقة' with 'صدقة' (charity).
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'نفقة' is a mandatory support payment to specific dependents; 'صدقة' is voluntary charity given to the needy.
The core difference lies in obligation versus voluntariness and the specific recipient. 'نفقة' is a duty, while 'صدقة' is an act of goodwill.
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Mispronouncing the 'ق' (qaf) sound, often replacing it with 'k' or 'g'.
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Pronounce 'ق' as a distinct guttural sound from the back of the throat.
The 'ق' sound is a crucial phoneme in Arabic. Incorrect pronunciation can hinder comprehension and affect the word's identity.
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Using 'نفقة' when the context is about spending on objects or services, not people.
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Use words like 'تكلفة' (cost) or 'سعر' (price) for objects/services.
'نفقة' is intrinsically linked to the sustenance and maintenance of living beings, not inanimate items or services.
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Forgetting the Idafa construction when referring to who is receiving the support.
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Use the Idafa structure, e.g., 'نفقة الأطفال' (children's support) instead of 'نفقة للأطفال' (support for children) in many contexts.
The Idafa construction is the standard and most concise way to express possession or relationship in Arabic, clearly linking the expenditure to its recipient.
Tips
Master the 'Q'
The 'ق' (qaf) sound in 'نفقة' is unique to Arabic. Practice it by making a sound from the back of your throat, similar to clearing your throat but without the friction. This will significantly improve your pronunciation.
Idafa Construction
Get comfortable with the Idafa construction (noun + noun in genitive). Phrases like 'نفقة الأطفال' (children's support) and 'نفقة الزوجة' (wife's support) are extremely common and essential for understanding and using the word correctly.
Familial Duty
Understand that 'نفقة' is deeply tied to cultural values of familial responsibility in Arab societies. It's not just money; it represents care, duty, and social obligation.
Distinguish from General Expenses
Avoid using 'نفقة' for everyday spending like buying clothes or entertainment. Reserve it for specific obligations of financial support towards dependents.
Connect to Related Concepts
Link 'نفقة' to related terms like 'طلاق' (divorce), 'أطفال' (children), 'زوجة' (wife), and legal terms like 'محكمة' (court) to build a stronger semantic network in your mind.
Sentence Creation
Actively try to create your own sentences using 'نفقة' in different contexts. Write them down, say them aloud, and check their accuracy. This active recall is crucial for mastery.
Listen in Context
When watching Arabic dramas or news, pay attention to how 'نفقة' is used. This real-world exposure will solidify your understanding of its nuances and common collocations.
Compare and Contrast
Explore synonyms like 'إعالة' and 'مصاريف'. Understanding their subtle differences will help you choose the most precise word for any given situation.
Mnemonic Devices
Use mnemonics or visual associations, like imagining someone paying 'fees' ('nafaqah') for their family, to make the word more memorable and easier to recall.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person named 'Naf' who has to pay a lot of 'f'ees' (fees) to support his family. The 'fees' are his 'nafaqah'. The 'f' sound links to the 'f' in Nafaqah.
Visual Association
Picture a family standing behind a shield made of coins, with the word 'نفقة' written on the shield. This visually represents financial protection and support.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'نفقة' in three sentences describing different scenarios: one legal, one familial, and one where you explain why it's different from general expenses.
Word Origin
The word 'نفقة' originates from the Arabic root ن-ف-ق (n-f-q), which generally relates to passing through, consuming, or spending. This root encompasses ideas of something being used up or expended.
Original meaning: The root ن-ف-ق signifies passage, depletion, or expenditure. In its noun form, 'نفقة' specifically evolved to mean the expenditure required for sustenance or maintenance.
SemiticCultural Context
Discussions about نفقة can be sensitive, especially in contexts of divorce or financial hardship. It involves personal finances, family relationships, and legal matters, which require respectful and careful handling.
In English-speaking contexts, the closest equivalents are 'alimony', 'spousal support', and 'child support'. These terms specifically address the financial obligations arising from marital or parental relationships, mirroring the primary usage of نفقة.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Divorce Proceedings
- تحديد نفقة الأطفال
- نفقة الزوجة بعد الطلاق
- طلب نفقة مؤقتة
- تعديل النفقة
Family Financial Planning
- نفقة المعيشة الشهرية
- توفير نفقة التعليم
- ميزانية النفقة السنوية
- عبء النفقة على الأب
Legal Discussions
- قانون النفقة
- استحقاق النفقة
- نفقة الأقارب
- الطعن في قرار النفقة
Religious Teachings
- النفقة الشرعية
- نفقة في سبيل الله
- واجب النفقة على الأب
Social Welfare
- مساعدة مالية كبديل للنفقة
- ضمان النفقة للأسر المحتاجة
- برامج دعم النفقة
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever heard of the term 'nafaqah' in Arabic? What do you think it means?"
"In many cultures, providing for one's family is a significant duty. How does this concept manifest in your experience?"
"What are some of the financial responsibilities you associate with marriage or raising children?"
"Can you think of situations where someone might be legally obligated to provide financial support to another person?"
"How do you think laws regarding financial support after divorce are structured in different countries?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on the importance of financial responsibility within a family. How does the concept of 'nafaqah' relate to this?
Imagine you are a lawyer specializing in family law. Describe a case where 'nafaqah' was a central issue.
Consider the emotional and social impact of not being able to provide 'nafaqah' for one's dependents. Write a short story or reflection.
Research the legal framework for child support or alimony in an Arabic-speaking country. How does it compare to systems you are familiar with?
Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding financial support obligations within families. When does it become a burden, and when is it a fundamental right?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'نفقة' specifically refers to the financial obligation to support someone, typically family members like a spouse or children, and is often legally mandated (like alimony or child support). General expenses, referred to by words like 'مصاريف' or 'تكاليف', are any costs incurred, such as for daily living, housing, or personal purchases, without necessarily implying a duty towards others.
While 'نفقة' is most commonly associated with legal obligations like child support and alimony, it can also refer to general financial support provided within a family out of moral or social duty, even if not legally enforced. However, its primary and most precise meaning in formal contexts is tied to legal or established familial responsibilities.
The primary recipients of 'نفقة' are dependents, most commonly children and ex-spouses (alimony). In some contexts, it can also refer to the financial support provided to elderly parents or other relatives who are unable to support themselves.
The amount of 'نفقة' is usually determined by courts based on several factors, including the income and financial capacity of the person obligated to pay, the needs of the recipient (including housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare), the standard of living of the family before separation, and the laws of the specific jurisdiction.
Yes, 'نفقة' amounts can often be adjusted. If there is a significant change in the financial circumstances of either the payer or the recipient, or if the needs of the dependent change (e.g., a child's educational needs increase), either party can petition the court to modify the 'نفقة' amount.
Failure to pay legally mandated 'نفقة' can have serious consequences. Courts can enforce payment through various means, including wage garnishment, freezing bank accounts, seizing assets, and in severe cases, imprisonment. It is considered a serious legal offense.
Primarily, 'نفقة' applies to spouses and children. However, the concept can extend to other dependents like elderly parents who are unable to support themselves, depending on the specific legal and cultural context of the region.
No, 'نفقة' is distinct from charity ('صدقة'). While both involve giving money, 'نفقة' is typically a mandatory obligation towards specific individuals one is responsible for, whereas charity is voluntary and given to the needy in general, often for religious reasons.
Yes, in many legal systems, a wife is entitled to 'نفقة' from her husband, which covers her living expenses. This obligation continues during the marriage and may extend after divorce as alimony or spousal support, depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction.
'نفقة تعليمية' refers specifically to financial support provided for educational expenses. This can include tuition fees, books, supplies, and other costs associated with schooling or higher education for children or dependents.
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Summary
<strong>نفقة</strong> refers to the financial obligation to provide for someone's living expenses, most commonly in the context of family support like alimony or child support.
- Financial obligation for support.
- Covers living costs for family/spouse.
- Often legally mandated (alimony, child support).
- Distinct from general expenses.
Context is Key
Always pay attention to the context when you encounter 'نفقة'. If it's related to divorce, children, or spousal duties, it almost certainly means financial support. If it's about general spending, other words like 'مصاريف' are more likely.
Master the 'Q'
The 'ق' (qaf) sound in 'نفقة' is unique to Arabic. Practice it by making a sound from the back of your throat, similar to clearing your throat but without the friction. This will significantly improve your pronunciation.
Idafa Construction
Get comfortable with the Idafa construction (noun + noun in genitive). Phrases like 'نفقة الأطفال' (children's support) and 'نفقة الزوجة' (wife's support) are extremely common and essential for understanding and using the word correctly.
Familial Duty
Understand that 'نفقة' is deeply tied to cultural values of familial responsibility in Arab societies. It's not just money; it represents care, duty, and social obligation.
Example
يتحمل الأب نفقة تعليم أبنائه في الجامعة.
Related Content
More Home & Family words
إعالة
B1The act of providing financial and material support for family members, such as food, clothing, and housing.
عاطفة
B1A strong feeling deriving from one's circumstances, mood, or relationships with others; emotion or affection.
عائِلة
A1A group of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption, usually living together.
عَائِل
B1The person who supports a family financially, commonly known as the breadwinner or the provider.
عائل
B1The person who provides financial support and takes care of the family's needs; the breadwinner.
عَائِلَة
A1A social unit consisting of parents and children, or a group of people related by blood or marriage.
عازب
B1A person who is not married, especially a man.
عقارات
B1Property consisting of land or buildings; real estate.
عِمَارَة
A2A large building divided into several apartments or offices.
عرس
A2A wedding ceremony and the celebration that accompanies it.
