At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe basic actions. The word يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) might seem a bit advanced, but you can think of it as a formal way to say 'to show.' Imagine you are pointing at a map and saying, 'This map shows the way.' In Arabic, you would use this verb. At this level, don't worry too much about the complex grammar of Form II verbs. Just remember that it is a word used when you want to make something clear to someone else. It is like turning on a light in a dark room so you can see what is there. You might hear your teacher say 'yubayyin' when they are showing you a picture or a word on the board. It's a very helpful word for basic communication because it helps you share information. Think of it as 'pointing with words.' Even at A1, using this word correctly in a simple sentence like 'The book shows the picture' (Al-kitab yubayyin al-sura) will make you sound very impressive! Focus on the sound: 'Yu-bay-yin.' It has three syllables, and you should emphasize the middle 'bay' part. This will help people understand you clearly.
At the A2 level, you are building your vocabulary to handle more daily situations. يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) is a key verb for you because it allows you to explain things simply. You can use it to talk about what a sign says, what a recipe shows, or what a friend is explaining to you. At this level, you should start noticing that this verb is 'transitive,' which means it usually has an object. For example, 'He shows the path' (Yubayyin al-tariq). You can also use it with the preposition 'li' to say who you are showing something to: 'He shows the path to the tourists' (Yubayyin al-tariq lil-suwwah). This is also the level where you learn simple present tense conjugations. 'I show' is 'ubayyin,' 'you show' is 'tubayyin,' and 'she shows' is also 'tubayyin.' Practice using it when you are describing your daily life or giving simple instructions. It is a step up from the very basic 'yushiru' (to point) and shows that you are beginning to understand how to express 'clarifying' something rather than just 'pointing' at it. It's a great word for giving directions or explaining a simple rule in a game.
At the B1 level, you are moving toward intermediate proficiency, and يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) becomes a vital tool for expressing opinions and describing processes. You will start using it in more complex sentences, often followed by the word 'anna' (that). For example, 'The research shows that...' (Al-bahth yubayyin anna...). This is a very common structure in news articles and school essays. At B1, you should also be comfortable using the past tense: 'bayyana' (he showed/clarified). You might say, 'The teacher clarified the mistake' (Bayyana al-mu'allim al-khata'). You are also starting to understand the 'Form II' system in Arabic grammar. Form II verbs often mean 'to cause something to happen.' Since the root B-Y-N means 'to be clear,' 'bayyana' means 'to cause something to be clear.' This understanding helps you guess the meanings of other verbs in the same family. You will use 'yubayyin' when you want to be precise in your speaking and writing, especially when you are providing evidence for your points. It's a word that adds a level of professionalism and logic to your Arabic.
At the B2 level, you are expected to handle more abstract topics and technical discussions. يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) is essential for this. You will use it to discuss data, analyze literature, and explain complex social issues. At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'yubayyin' from its synonyms like 'yuwaddih' (to clarify) or 'yufassir' (to interpret). You will notice 'yubayyin' appearing in academic journals and formal speeches. You should also be familiar with the passive form 'yubayyan' (is shown/clarified), although it is less common. For example, 'kama yubayyan fi al-rasm' (as is shown in the drawing). You will also start using the verbal noun (masdar) 'tabyin' (clarification/showing), though 'bayan' is more common for 'statement.' At B2, your use of 'yubayyin' should be fluid, and you should be able to use it to link ideas together, such as 'This evidence shows that the theory is correct.' It is no longer just about 'pointing'; it is about 'demonstrating' and 'proving.' Your ability to use this verb in a variety of moods (subjunctive, jussive) will show your growing mastery of Arabic syntax.
At the C1 level, you are approaching an advanced, professional level of Arabic. يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) is now a word you use with nuance and stylistic flair. You understand its deep roots in the concept of 'Bayan' (eloquence). You will encounter it in classical literature, high-level political discourse, and complex philosophical texts. At this level, you should be able to use the verb to 'elucidate' intricate points of law or theology. You will also recognize its use in the Quran and classical poetry, where it often carries a weight of divine or ultimate truth. You can use it in sophisticated rhetorical structures, such as 'bayyana bima la yada'u majalan lil-shakk' (he showed in a way that leaves no room for doubt). You will also be comfortable with all related forms, such as 'tabayyana' (to become clear/to find out). Your usage will reflect an understanding of the subtle difference between 'yubayyin' (to make clear to others) and 'yastabin' (to seek clarity for oneself). At C1, you are not just using the word; you are wielding it as a tool for precise and elegant communication, capable of handling the most delicate shades of meaning.
At the C2 level, you have attained near-native or native-like mastery of the language. يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) is a word you use instinctively, with a full grasp of its historical, religious, and linguistic baggage. You can analyze how different authors use this verb to create specific effects in their writing. You might use it in a scholarly critique of a text, explaining how a certain passage 'yubayyin' the underlying themes of the work. You are also aware of the most obscure derivatives and usages of the B-Y-N root. In a C2 context, 'yubayyin' is part of a vast repertoire of verbs that allow you to navigate any communicative situation with total precision. Whether you are writing a legal brief, a doctoral thesis, or a work of creative fiction, you know exactly when 'yubayyin' is the most effective choice. You can also play with the word's associations, using it in metaphors or idiomatic expressions that reflect a deep immersion in Arab culture and thought. At this level, the word is no longer a 'vocabulary item' but a part of your intellectual identity in the Arabic language, enabling you to bring absolute clarity to the most complex and abstract human experiences.

يُبَيِّن in 30 Seconds

  • A versatile verb meaning 'to show' or 'to clarify'.
  • Derived from the root B-Y-N (distinct/clear).
  • Used in formal, academic, and daily contexts.
  • Follows the Form II (Taf'eel) grammatical pattern.
The Arabic verb يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) is a cornerstone of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and classical Arabic, functioning as a primary tool for clarity, demonstration, and explanation. Rooted in the three-letter sequence ب - ي - ن (B-Y-N), which fundamentally carries the meaning of 'separation' or 'distinctness,' the Form II verb بَيَّنَ / يُبَيِّنُ (bayyana / yubayyinu) literally means 'to make something distinct' or 'to set things apart so they can be seen clearly.' In a pedagogical or communicative context, this translates to 'to show,' 'to clarify,' or 'to explain.' When you use this word, you are not just providing information; you are actively removing ambiguity and making the subject matter manifest to the listener's mind.
Semantic Range
The word covers everything from a teacher explaining a math problem to a scientist showing data on a graph, or even a legal document clarifying the terms of a contract. It implies an active effort to bring something from a state of confusion to a state of light.

هذا الجدول يُبَيِّن الأرباح السنوية للشركة بشكل واضح للجميع.
(This table shows the company's annual profits clearly to everyone.)

Form II Dynamics
The doubling of the middle radical (the 'ya') indicates an intensive or causative action. While Form I (bana) might mean to be clear, Form II (bayyana) is the act of making something clear to others. This makes it a transitive verb that usually takes a direct object.

يُبَيِّنُ البحثُ العلاقةَ بين التدخين وأمراض القلب.
(The research clarifies the relationship between smoking and heart disease.)

Cultural Weight
The concept of 'Bayan' (eloquence/clarity) is a major theme in Arabic literature and theology. To 'yubayyin' is to participate in the noble act of bringing truth to light, which is highly valued in Arab intellectual history.

لقد بَيَّنَ لنا التاريخ أن الصبر مفتاح الفرج.
(History has shown us that patience is the key to relief.)

المقال يُبَيِّنُ وجهات نظر مختلفة حول القضية.
(The article clarifies different viewpoints on the issue.)

يُبَيِّنُ المخطط البياني الزيادة في عدد السكان.
(The diagram shows the increase in population.)

Students of Arabic will encounter this verb frequently in academic texts, news broadcasts, and instructional manuals. Its versatility allows it to function as a bridge between simple visual showing and complex intellectual clarification. Whether you are pointing at a map or explaining a philosophical concept, 'yubayyin' is your go-to verb for bringing clarity to the world around you.
Using يُبَيِّن effectively requires understanding its grammatical behavior and the specific contexts it thrives in. As a Form II verb, it follows the pattern fa''ala - yufa''ilu. In the present tense, for the third person masculine singular, it is يُبَيِّنُ (yubayyinu). It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object (the thing being clarified) and often includes a prepositional phrase to indicate to whom the clarification is being made.
Direct Object Construction
The most common structure is: [Subject] + يُبَيِّن + [Direct Object]. For example, 'The teacher explains the lesson.' Here, 'the lesson' (al-darsa) would be in the accusative case (mansub).

يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ الدرسَ للطلاب في الفصل.
(The teacher explains the lesson to the students in the classroom.)

Using 'Anna' (That)
Often, what is being clarified is a whole clause. In this case, 'yubayyin' is followed by 'anna' (that) and a nominal sentence. This is extremely common in news reporting and scientific writing.

التقرير يُبَيِّنُ أنَّ الاقتصادَ في تحسن مستمر.
(The report shows that the economy is in constant improvement.)

Prepositional Usage
To specify the recipient of the explanation, use the preposition 'li' (for/to). To specify the means of explanation, you might use 'bi' (by/with) or 'min khilal' (through).

يُبَيِّنُ الكاتبُ فكرتَهُ من خلالِ الأمثلةِ الواقعية.
(The writer clarifies his idea through realistic examples.)

هل يمكنك أن تُبَيِّنَ لي كيف يعمل هذا الجهاز؟
(Can you show me how this device works?)

يُبَيِّنُ هذا الدليلُ الخطواتِ اللازمةَ للتسجيل.
(This guide shows the necessary steps for registration.)

In everyday conversation, while 'yubayyin' is slightly more formal than the dialect counterparts (like 'yifarji' in Levantine or 'yuwari' in Gulf), it is perfectly understood and used when one wants to sound precise. It is the verb of the intellectual, the teacher, and the honest observer. By mastering its use, you gain the ability to structure your arguments and descriptions with the clarity that the Arabic language is famous for.
You will encounter يُبَيِّن in a variety of high-stakes and informative environments. It is a staple of 'Fusha' (Modern Standard Arabic) and is pervasive in media, education, and religious discourse.
News and Media
On Al Jazeera or BBC Arabic, news anchors use 'yubayyin' when introducing infographics, maps, or expert analysis. It signals to the audience that evidence is about to be presented.

يُبَيِّنُ مراسلنا في القدس آخر التطورات الميدانية.
(Our correspondent in Jerusalem clarifies the latest field developments.)

Academic and Scientific Discourse
In textbooks and research papers, 'yubayyin' is used to refer to figures, tables, and logical conclusions. It is the verb of choice for demonstrating empirical results.

الشكل الرقمي (٢) يُبَيِّنُ توزيع السكان في المناطق الحضرية.
(Figure number (2) shows the population distribution in urban areas.)

Religious and Legal Contexts
The root B-Y-N is central to the Quran. God 'yubayyin' (makes clear) His signs to humanity. In legal contexts, a judge might 'yubayyin' the reasons for a verdict.

كذلك يُبَيِّنُ الله لكم آياته لعلكم تعقلون.
(Thus does Allah make clear to you His signs that you may understand.)

يُبَيِّنُ العقدُ حقوقَ وواجباتِ كلا الطرفين.
(The contract clarifies the rights and duties of both parties.)

الفيديو يُبَيِّنُ كيفية استخدام البرنامج خطوة بخطوة.
(The video shows how to use the program step by step.)

Whether in a mosque, a university lecture hall, or a corporate boardroom, 'yubayyin' is the word that bridges the gap between the unknown and the known. It is the linguistic light switch of the Arabic language.
Even though يُبَيِّن is a common verb, learners often stumble over its conjugation, its prepositional requirements, and its confusion with similar-sounding roots.
Confusion with Form IV
Learners often confuse Form II 'yubayyin' with Form IV 'yubin' (from abana). While both relate to clarity, 'yubayyin' is the standard modern word for 'to clarify' or 'to show' something to someone else. 'Yubin' is much more archaic and rare in modern usage.

خطأ: هو يُبين الدرس. صح: هو يُبَيِّنُ الدرسَ.
(Mistake: He 'yubin' the lesson. Correct: He 'yubayyin' the lesson.)

The Shadda on the 'Ya'
The shadda (doubling) on the middle letter 'ya' is crucial. Without it, the word changes entirely. Pronouncing it 'yubayin' instead of 'yubay-yin' is a common phonetic error that makes the speaker sound uneducated in the language rules.
Preposition Confusion
Some learners try to use 'ala' (on) after 'yubayyin' because they are thinking of the English 'to shed light on.' However, 'yubayyin' usually takes a direct object or 'li' for the person being shown.

خطأ: يُبَيِّنُ على المشكلة. صح: يُبَيِّنُ المشكلةَ.
(Mistake: He clarifies ON the problem. Correct: He clarifies the problem.)

خطأ: بَيَّنَ بِأنَّ. صح: بَيَّنَ أنَّ.
(Mistake: He showed WITH THAT. Correct: He showed THAT.)

خطأ: يُبَيِّنُ إلى الطلاب. صح: يُبَيِّنُ لِلطلاب.
(Mistake: He explains TO (ila) the students. Correct: He explains FOR (li) the students.)

By paying attention to these nuances, you will avoid the common pitfalls that mark a beginner and instead communicate with the precision of a native speaker.
Arabic is a language of immense lexical depth, and while يُبَيِّن is versatile, there are several synonyms that offer different shades of meaning.
يُوَضِّح (Yuwaddih)
This is the closest synonym. While 'yubayyin' emphasizes making something distinct or manifest, 'yuwaddih' focuses on 'clarity' (wuduh). They are often interchangeable, but 'yuwaddih' is slightly more common in modern corporate and administrative speech.

يُوَضِّحُ الوزيرُ السياسةَ الجديدةَ.
(The minister clarifies the new policy.)

يَشْرَح (Yashrah)
This means 'to explain' in the sense of expanding upon a topic or opening it up (the root means 'to cut open' or 'expand'). Use this when you are talking about a teacher explaining a concept orally.

يَشْرَحُ الأستاذُ القصيدةَ لطلابه.
(The professor explains the poem to his students.)

يُظْهِر (Yuzhir)
This means 'to show' or 'to reveal.' It is more visual than 'yubayyin.' Use this for showing a physical object or showing an emotion on one's face.

يُظْهِرُ الطفلُ سعادتَهُ بالهدية.
(The child shows his happiness with the gift.)

يُفَسِّر (Yufassir)
This means 'to interpret' or 'to explain the meaning of.' It is used for complex texts (like the Quran - Tafsir) or for interpreting data and dreams.

يُفَسِّرُ العالِمُ هذه الظاهرةَ الطبيعية.
(The scientist interprets this natural phenomenon.)

يُبْرِزُ (Yubriz): To highlight or make something stand out.
(The light highlights the beauty of the statue.)

Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the right word for the right context, making your Arabic sound more natural and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The same root gives us the word 'Bayn' (between), because being 'between' things requires a distinction or space between them. Clarity is literally 'seeing the space between things.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /juːˈbeɪ.jɪn/
US /juˈbeɪ.jɪn/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: yu-BAY-yin.
Rhymes With
Tazayyin (beautifying) Tabayyin (clarifying - verbal noun) Tamayin (leaning) Tahyin (preparing) Mu'ayyin (specifying) Muzayyin (decorator) Mulayyin (softener) Muhayyin (timer)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing it 'yubayin' without the double 'y' sound.
  • Making the 'u' sound too long like 'yoo'.
  • Confusing the 'b' with a 'p' sound.
  • Dropping the final 'n' sound.
  • Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize once you know the root B-Y-N and the Form II pattern.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct placement of the shadda and handle on the 'anna' construction.

Speaking 4/5

The doubled 'y' can be tricky for English speakers to pronounce naturally.

Listening 3/5

Very common in news, making it easy to pick out with practice.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

بَيْن (between) وَاضِح (clear) شَكْل (shape/figure) قَالَ (said) عَرَفَ (knew)

Learn Next

تَبَيَّنَ (to become clear) بَيِّنَة (evidence) تَفْسِير (interpretation) إِيضَاح (clarification) مُبَرْهِن (proving)

Advanced

اسْتِبْيَان (survey/questionnaire) تَبَايُن (contrast) بَيَانِيّ (graphical) مُبَايَنَة (variance) تِبْيَان (exposition)

Grammar to Know

Form II Verb Patterns

بَيَّنَ (Past), يُبَيِّنُ (Present), بَيِّنْ (Imperative).

Transitive Verbs

يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ [الدرسَ] (Object in Accusative).

Using 'Anna' with Verbs of Showing

يُبَيِّنُ التقريرُ [أنَّ] الاقتصادَ قويٌّ.

Preposition 'Li' for Recipients

يُبَيِّنُ [لَكَ] الحقيقة.

Feminine Subject Agreement

الخريطةُ [تُبَيِّنُ] الطريق.

Examples by Level

1

هذا الكتاب يُبَيِّنُ الصور.

This book shows the pictures.

Simple Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) structure.

2

هو يُبَيِّنُ الطريقَ لي.

He shows the way to me.

Use of 'li' (to/for) for the recipient.

3

المعلم يُبَيِّنُ الكلمةَ.

The teacher shows the word.

Direct object 'al-kalima' is in the accusative.

4

الأم تُبَيِّنُ اللعبةَ للطفل.

The mother shows the toy to the child.

Feminine form 'tubayyin'.

5

أنا أُبَيِّنُ بيتي لصديقي.

I show my house to my friend.

First person 'ubayyin'.

6

الخريطة تُبَيِّنُ المدينة.

The map shows the city.

Feminine subject 'al-kharita' uses 'tubayyin'.

7

أنتَ تُبَيِّنُ القلمَ.

You show the pen.

Second person masculine 'tubayyin'.

8

نحن نُبَيِّنُ الحقيقة.

We show the truth.

First person plural 'nubayyin'.

1

يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ كيفَ نكتبُ.

The teacher shows how we write.

Using 'kayfa' (how) after the verb.

2

اللوحةُ تُبَيِّنُ مواعيدَ القطار.

The board shows the train times.

Feminine subject 'al-lawha'.

3

هل يمكنك أن تُبَيِّنَ لي هذا؟

Can you show me this?

Subjunctive 'tubayyina' after 'an'.

4

يُبَيِّنُ الأبُ لابنهِ الخطأَ.

The father explains the mistake to his son.

VSO (Verb-Subject-Object) order.

5

هذه العلامة تُبَيِّنُ ممنوع التدخين.

This sign shows 'No Smoking'.

Abstract clarification.

6

يُبَيِّنُ الفيديو طريقةَ الطبخِ.

The video shows the cooking method.

Possessive construction 'tariqat al-tabkh'.

7

المرشدُ يُبَيِّنُ لنا الآثارَ.

The guide shows us the ruins.

Object suffix 'na' (us) on 'li'.

8

يُبَيِّنُ الجدولُ أسعارَ الفواكه.

The table shows the prices of fruits.

Plural object 'as'ar'.

1

يُبَيِّنُ التقريرُ أنَّ المبيعاتِ زادت.

The report shows that sales increased.

Use of 'anna' (that) + accusative noun.

2

بَيَّنَ الباحثُ أهميةَ الرياضةِ.

The researcher clarified the importance of sports.

Past tense 'bayyana'.

3

يجب أن نُبَيِّنَ وجهةَ نظرنا.

We must clarify our point of view.

Subjunctive 'nubayyina' after 'an'.

4

يُبَيِّنُ المقالُ أسبابَ التلوثِ.

The article clarifies the causes of pollution.

Construct state 'asbab al-talawwuth'.

5

يُبَيِّنُ لنا التاريخُ دروساً كثيرة.

History shows us many lessons.

Indefinite object 'durus' with adjective.

6

لم يُبَيِّنِ المديرُ سببَ القرارِ.

The manager did not clarify the reason for the decision.

Jussive 'yubayyin' after 'lam' (with kasra for flow).

7

يُبَيِّنُ هذا المثالُ القاعدةَ بوضوح.

This example shows the rule clearly.

Adverbial phrase 'bi-wuduh'.

8

سأُبَيِّنُ لكَ كلَّ شيءٍ غداً.

I will clarify everything to you tomorrow.

Future 'sa-' prefix.

1

تُبَيِّنُ الدراساتُ الحديثةُ علاقةَ الغذاءِ بالصحة.

Modern studies show the relationship of food to health.

Plural subject 'dirasat' takes feminine singular verb.

2

بَيَّنَ الكاتبُ في روايتهِ الصراعَ النفسي.

The writer clarified the psychological conflict in his novel.

Abstract direct object.

3

يُبَيِّنُ الدستورُ صلاحياتِ الرئيسِ.

The constitution clarifies the president's powers.

Legal terminology.

4

يُبَيِّنُ هذا الاكتشافُ مدى تطورِ الحضارة.

This discovery shows the extent of the civilization's development.

Using 'mada' (extent).

5

لم يَتَبَيَّنْ لنا بعدُ مَن هو الفائز.

It has not yet become clear to us who the winner is.

Form V 'tabayyana' (to become clear).

6

يُبَيِّنُ التحليلُ الكيميائيُّ مكوناتِ المادة.

The chemical analysis shows the components of the substance.

Technical scientific context.

7

بَيَّنَ لي صديقي أنَّ الأمرَ بسيط.

My friend clarified to me that the matter is simple.

Verb-Preposition-Subject order.

8

يُبَيِّنُ الفيلمُ الوثائقيُّ حياةَ البرية.

The documentary film shows wildlife.

Compound subject 'al-film al-watha'iqi'.

1

يُبَيِّنُ النصُّ الفلسفيُّ أبعادَ الوجودِ الإنساني.

The philosophical text elucidates the dimensions of human existence.

High-level academic vocabulary.

2

بَيَّنَ الخطابُ الملكيُّ ملامحَ المرحلةِ القادمة.

The royal speech clarified the features of the upcoming stage.

Metaphorical use of 'features'.

3

يُبَيِّنُ القرآنُ الكريمُ منهجَ الحياةِ القويم.

The Holy Quran clarifies the upright path of life.

Religious context.

4

يُبَيِّنُ هذا النقدُ الثغراتِ في النظريةِ.

This critique clarifies the gaps in the theory.

Intellectual analysis.

5

بَيَّنَ بوضوحٍ لا لَبْسَ فيهِ موقفَهُ السياسي.

He clarified his political stance with unmistakable clarity.

Idiomatic phrase 'la labsa fihi'.

6

يُبَيِّنُ الإحصاءُ تراجعَ معدلاتِ البطالة.

The statistics show the decline in unemployment rates.

Sociological context.

7

يُبَيِّنُ الرسمُ البيانيُّ التباينَ بين الطبقات.

The chart shows the disparity between the classes.

Economic terminology.

8

بَيَّنَ لنا الشاعرُ مكنوناتِ نفسهِ.

The poet clarified the secrets of his soul to us.

Literary/poetic language.

1

يُبَيِّنُ هذا السردُ التاريخيُّ تداخلَ الثقافات.

This historical narrative elucidates the intertwining of cultures.

Complex abstract nouns.

2

بَيَّنَ المفكرُ تهافتَ الحججِ التقليدية.

The thinker clarified the incoherence of traditional arguments.

Advanced philosophical vocabulary (tahafut).

3

يُبَيِّنُ القانونُ الدوليُّ أطرَ التعاونِ المشترك.

International law clarifies the frameworks of joint cooperation.

Diplomatic and legal terminology.

4

بَيَّنَ التشريحُ الطبيُّ سببَ الوفاةِ الغامض.

The medical autopsy clarified the mysterious cause of death.

Technical medical context.

5

يُبَيِّنُ الفنُّ التجريديُّ ما وراءَ الواقع.

Abstract art clarifies what lies beyond reality.

Philosophical/Artistic discussion.

6

بَيَّنَ لنا بلسانٍ فصيحٍ مأساةَ اللاجئين.

He clarified the tragedy of refugees with an eloquent tongue.

Rhetorical flourishes.

7

يُبَيِّنُ التطورُ البيولوجيُّ تكيفَ الكائنات.

Biological evolution shows the adaptation of organisms.

Advanced scientific concept.

8

بَيَّنَ البحثُ الأكاديميُّ زيفَ الادعاءات.

Academic research clarified the falsity of the claims.

Formal academic debate.

Common Collocations

يُبَيِّنُ بوضوح
يُبَيِّنُ التقريرُ أنَّ
يُبَيِّنُ الجدولُ
يُبَيِّنُ الحقائق
يُبَيِّنُ الأسباب
يُبَيِّنُ الطريق
يُبَيِّنُ الفرق
يُبَيِّنُ الموقف
يُبَيِّنُ كيفية
يُبَيِّنُ وجهة نظر

Common Phrases

كما يُبَيِّنُ الشكل

— As the figure shows. Used in textbooks.

كما يُبَيِّنُ الشكل (١)، الأرضُ كروية.

يُبَيِّنُ بما لا يَدَعُ مجالاً للشك

— Shows in a way that leaves no room for doubt. Very formal.

الدليلُ يُبَيِّنُ بما لا يدع مجالاً للشك براءته.

يُبَيِّنُ النقاط الأساسية

— Clarifies the basic points. Used in summaries.

سأُبَيِّنُ لكم النقاطَ الأساسية في الاجتماع.

يُبَيِّنُ الجوانب المختلفة

— Shows the different aspects. Used in analysis.

يُبَيِّنُ الكتابُ الجوانبَ المختلفة للثقافة.

يُبَيِّنُ الخطوات

— Shows the steps. Used in guides.

يُبَيِّنُ هذا الفيديو الخطواتِ بالتفصيل.

يُبَيِّنُ العلاقة بين

— Shows the relationship between. Scientific/Logical.

يُبَيِّنُ البحثُ العلاقةَ بين النوم والذكاء.

يُبَيِّنُ أهمية

— Shows the importance of. Persuasive.

يُبَيِّنُ المقالُ أهميةَ الحفاظ على البيئة.

يُبَيِّنُ مدى

— Shows the extent of. Analytical.

يُبَيِّنُ الاختبارُ مدى استيعاب الطلاب.

يُبَيِّنُ حقيقة الأمر

— Shows the truth of the matter.

الوقتُ سَيُبَيِّنُ حقيقةَ الأمر.

يُبَيِّنُ التفاصيل

— Clarifies the details.

يُبَيِّنُ المهندسُ التفاصيلَ الفنية.

Often Confused With

يُبَيِّن vs بَيْنَ (Bayna)

This is a preposition meaning 'between.' It sounds similar but lacks the verbal structure and shadda.

يُبَيِّن vs يَبْنِي (Yabni)

This means 'he builds.' It has different root letters (B-N-Y) and a different meaning entirely.

يُبَيِّن vs يُبِين (Yubin)

This is Form IV (to make clear). It is archaic and rarely used in Modern Standard Arabic compared to يُبَيِّن.

Idioms & Expressions

"بَيَّنَ الصُّبْحُ لِذِي عَيْنَيْنِ"

— The morning has become clear to those with eyes. Used when something becomes absolutely obvious.

لقد بَيَّنَ الصبح لذي عينين أنك كنتَ على خطأ.

Literary/Classical
"يُبَيِّنُ الخيط الأبيض من الخيط الأسود"

— To distinguish the white thread from the black thread. Originally Quranic, meaning to distinguish dawn from night, but used generally for extreme clarity.

يُبَيِّنُ لنا هذا الموقف الخيطَ الأبيض من الخيط الأسود.

Religious/Poetic
"بَيَّنَ صَفْحَتَهُ"

— To show one's true colors or true intentions.

أخيراً بَيَّنَ الخائنُ صفحتَهُ للجميع.

Formal
"يُبَيِّنُ الغَثَّ مِنَ السَّمين"

— To distinguish the bad (lean meat) from the good (fat meat). To distinguish quality from rubbish.

النقدُ البنّاء يُبَيِّنُ الغثَّ من السمين في الأدب.

Literary
"بَيَّنَ أَنْيَابَهُ"

— To show one's fangs. To show aggression or strength after being quiet.

بَيَّنَ الفريقُ المنافسُ أنيابَهُ في الشوط الثاني.

Metaphorical
"يُبَيِّنُ حُجَّتَهُ"

— To present one's argument or proof clearly.

على كل متهم أن يُبَيِّنَ حُجَّتَهُ أمام القاضي.

Legal
"بَيَّنَ طَرِيقَهُ"

— To chart one's course or clarify one's future path.

بَيَّنَ الشابُّ طريقَهُ المهني مبكراً.

Neutral
"يُبَيِّنُ لَهُ النُّجُومَ فِي الظَّهِيرَةِ"

— To show someone stars at noon. To make someone go through a very difficult/painful experience.

سأُبَيِّنُ له النجوم في الظهيرة إذا حاول خداعي.

Informal/Threatening
"بَيَّنَ مَعْدِنَهُ"

— To show one's true metal (character).

الشدائدُ تُبَيِّنُ مَعْدِنَ الرجال.

Moral/Traditional
"يُبَيِّنُ مَوْقِفَهُ"

— To clarify one's stance or position on an issue.

يُبَيِّنُ السياسيُّ موقفَهُ من الضرائب.

Political

Easily Confused

يُبَيِّن vs يَشْرَح

Both mean 'to explain'.

'Yashrah' is more about the oral process of teaching, while 'yubayyin' is more about the logical or visual demonstration of clarity.

The teacher 'yashrah' the poem, but the map 'yubayyin' the city.

يُبَيِّن vs يُوَضِّح

Almost identical in meaning.

'Yuwaddih' is slightly more modern/administrative. 'Yubayyin' has stronger classical and Quranic roots.

The email 'yuwaddih' the time, the Quran 'yubayyin' the signs.

يُبَيِّن vs يُظْهِر

Both can mean 'to show'.

'Yuzhir' is strictly for visual showing (like showing a card). 'Yubayyin' includes intellectual clarification.

He 'yuzhir' his ID, but he 'yubayyin' his reasons.

يُبَيِّن vs يُفَسِّر

Both relate to explaining.

'Yufassir' is specifically for 'interpreting' or giving the meaning of something complex (dreams, scriptures).

The scientist 'yufassir' the data results.

يُبَيِّن vs يُبْرِز

Both relate to making something seen.

'Yubriz' means to highlight or make something stand out/prominent.

The dress 'yubriz' her beauty.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Subject] يُبَيِّنُ [Object].

الرجل يُبَيِّنُ الكتاب.

A2

[Subject] يُبَيِّنُ لِـ[Person] [Object].

المعلم يُبَيِّنُ لي الخطأ.

B1

[Subject] يُبَيِّنُ أنَّ [Sentence].

التقرير يُبَيِّنُ أنَّ الجوَّ حار.

B2

يُبَيِّنُ [Subject] كَيْفِيَّةَ [Noun].

يُبَيِّنُ الدليلُ كيفيةَ التسجيل.

C1

يُبَيِّنُ [Subject] بِمَا لا يَدَعُ مَجَالاً لِلشَّكِّ [Object].

يُبَيِّنُ البحثُ بما لا يدع مجالاً للشك أهميةَ اللقاح.

C2

بَيَّنَ [Subject] تَهَافُتَ [Noun].

بَيَّنَ الفيلسوفُ تهافتَ هذه الحجة.

A2

هَلْ يُمْكِنُكَ أَنْ تُبَيِّنَ لِي [Object]؟

هل يمكنك أن تُبَيِّنَ لي الطريق؟

B1

كَمَا يُبَيِّنُ [Subject]...

كما يُبَيِّنُ الجدولُ أدناه...

Word Family

Nouns

بَيَان (Bayan) - Statement/Eloquence
تَبْيِين (Tabyin) - Clarification/Showing
بَيِّنَة (Bayyina) - Proof/Evidence
تِبْيَان (Tibyan) - Detailed explanation
مُبَيِّن (Mubayyin) - One who clarifies

Verbs

بَانَ (Bana) - To be clear (Form I)
بَيَّنَ (Bayyana) - To clarify (Form II)
تَبَيَّنَ (Tabayyana) - To become clear/certain (Form V)
اسْتَبَانَ (Istabana) - To seek clarity (Form X)
أَبَانَ (Abana) - To make clear (Form IV - rare)

Adjectives

بَيِّن (Bayyin) - Clear/Obvious
مُبين (Mubin) - Evident/Manifest
مُتَبَيِّن (Mutabayyin) - Clear/Ascertained

Related

بَيْن (Bayn) - Between
بَيْنَمَا (Baynama) - While
بَيْنِيَّة (Bayniyya) - Intermediacy
مُبَايَنَة (Mubayana) - Contrast/Difference
تَبَايُن (Tabayun) - Disparity/Variation

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in written MSA and media Arabic.

Common Mistakes
  • Saying 'yubayin' instead of 'yubayyin'. يُبَيِّن (with shadda).

    The doubling of the 'y' is essential for the Form II meaning. Without it, the word is grammatically incorrect.

  • Using 'ila' instead of 'li' for the person. يُبَيِّنُ لِي (shows to me).

    While 'ila' means 'to', 'yubayyin' conventionally takes 'li' (for/to) to indicate the recipient of the explanation.

  • Confusing 'yubayyin' with 'yabni'. يُبَيِّن (shows) vs يَبْنِي (builds).

    These are different roots. B-Y-N vs B-N-Y. One is about clarity, the other about construction.

  • Using it for simple physical pointing. يُشيرُ إلى (points at).

    'Yubayyin' implies an explanation or demonstration, not just the physical act of extending a finger.

  • Forgetting the fatha on the object. يُبَيِّنُ الحقيقةَ (al-haqiqata).

    Since 'yubayyin' is a transitive verb, the object must be in the accusative case.

Tips

Master the Shadda

The shadda on the 'ya' is what makes it Form II. Practice saying 'bay-yana' with a distinct break to get the rhythm right. It distinguishes the verb from the preposition 'bayna'.

Use with 'Anna'

When you want to say 'show that...', always follow 'yubayyin' with 'anna'. Remember that 'anna' changes the following noun to the accusative case (fatha).

Academic Writing

If you are writing an essay in Arabic, use 'yubayyin' to refer to your examples. It makes your writing sound organized and logical.

Formal Requests

In a formal setting, if you don't understand something, say: 'Hal yumkinuka an tubayyina li?' (Can you clarify for me?). It is very polite.

News Keywords

Listen for 'yubayyin' in news weather reports or economic segments. It's almost always followed by 'al-kharta' (the map) or 'al-arqam' (the numbers).

Root Power

Remember the root B-Y-N. Anytime you see these letters in this order, the word probably has something to do with clarity, separation, or being 'between'.

Vary Your Synonyms

To avoid repetition in a long text, alternate between 'yubayyin', 'yuwaddih', and 'yashrah'. This shows a higher level of language mastery.

Religious Literacy

Understanding this verb helps you understand many Quranic verses. It's a key word for anyone interested in Islamic studies.

The 'Explain' Link

Link 'yubayyin' to 'explain' in your head. Both are the primary words for making things clear in their respective languages.

Daily Observation

Look at signs on the street and think: 'What does this sign yubayyin?'. It's a great way to internalize the word's meaning.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Bay' (window) that lets in light to show you what's 'In' the room. Yu-Bay-Yin. It shows you what is inside.

Visual Association

Imagine a flashlight beam hitting a dark object. The moment the light hits, it 'yubayyin' (clarifies) what the object is.

Word Web

Clarity Evidence Teacher Light Proof Eloquence Logic Truth

Challenge

Try to use 'yubayyin' three times today: once for a physical object, once for a reason, and once for a news fact.

Word Origin

The word comes from the Proto-Semitic root B-Y-N, which originally meant 'to separate' or 'to distinguish.' In Arabic, this evolved into the concept of making things distinct so they can be understood.

Original meaning: To set apart or to make a distinction between things.

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

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral, positive verb of learning and truth.

In English, we use 'show' for both physical and abstract things. Arabic 'yubayyin' is slightly more formal and intellectual than the basic 'show'.

The Quranic verse: 'Wa kazaalika yubayyinu Allahu lakum ayaatihi' (And thus Allah makes clear to you His signs). The book 'Al-Bayan wa al-Tabyin' by Al-Jahiz, a foundational work on Arabic rhetoric. The 'Bayyina' organization, a famous modern Arabic learning institute.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Education

  • يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ القاعدة.
  • يُبَيِّنُ الكتابُ المثال.
  • هل يمكنك أن تُبَيِّنَ لي الخطأ؟
  • يُبَيِّنُ الفيديو طريقة الحل.

Business

  • يُبَيِّنُ التقريرُ الأرباح.
  • يُبَيِّنُ الجدولُ الميزانية.
  • يُبَيِّنُ العقدُ الشروط.
  • يُبَيِّنُ العرضُ التقديميُّ الأهداف.

News

  • يُبَيِّنُ المراسلُ التطورات.
  • يُبَيِّنُ الرسمُ البيانيُّ النتائج.
  • يُبَيِّنُ المصدرُ أنَّ الخبرَ صحيح.
  • يُبَيِّنُ المتحدثُ الرسمي الموقف.

Science

  • يُبَيِّنُ البحثُ العلاقة.
  • يُبَيِّنُ المختبرُ المكونات.
  • يُبَيِّنُ الاكتشافُ الحقيقة.
  • يُبَيِّنُ التحليلُ البيانات.

Law

  • يُبَيِّنُ القانونُ الحقوق.
  • يُبَيِّنُ المحامي الدليل.
  • يُبَيِّنُ القاضي الحكم.
  • يُبَيِّنُ الشاهدُ ما حدث.

Conversation Starters

"هل يمكنك أن تُبَيِّنَ لي وجهة نظرك في هذا الموضوع؟"

"ماذا يُبَيِّنُ لنا هذا التقرير الجديد عن الاقتصاد؟"

"كيف يُبَيِّنُ هذا الكتاب تاريخ المنطقة؟"

"هل يُبَيِّنُ الفيديو كيفية إصلاح الجهاز؟"

"لماذا لم يُبَيِّنِ المديرُ أسبابَ القرارِ بالأمس؟"

Journal Prompts

اكتب عن موقف بَيَّنَ لك فيه شخصٌ ما حقيقةً لم تكن تعرفها.

ما هي أهم الدروس التي يُبَيِّنُها لنا التاريخ في رأيك؟

صف خريطة أو جدولاً يُبَيِّنُ شيئاً مهماً في حياتك اليومية.

كيف تُبَيِّنُ مشاعرك للآخرين دون استخدام الكلمات؟

اكتب عن بحث علمي يُبَيِّنُ أهمية الحفاظ على البيئة.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While 'yubayyin' is primarily Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), it is understood by all speakers. In dialects, people usually use words like 'yifarji' (Levant) or 'yuwari' (Gulf). However, in professional or educational settings, even in speech, 'yubayyin' or 'yuwaddih' is common.

The past tense is 'bayyana' (بَيَّنَ). For example: 'Bayyana al-mu'allim al-darsa' (The teacher explained the lesson). It follows the standard Form II past tense conjugation (bayyantu, bayyanta, etc.).

You use the imperative form: 'Bayyin li' (بَيِّنْ لي). If you are speaking to a woman, it is 'Bayyini li' (بَيِّني لي). It sounds quite formal, like 'Clarify for me'.

'Yubayyin' is Form II (transitive): He makes something clear to someone. 'Tabayyana' is Form V (intransitive/reflexive): Something becomes clear or someone finds out something. Example: 'Tabayyana li al-haqq' (The truth became clear to me).

It's better to use 'yushiru ila' (يُشيرُ إلى) for physical pointing. Use 'yubayyin' when you are demonstrating how something works or clarifying a concept.

Yes, 'Bayan' (بَيَان) is the most common noun, meaning 'statement' or 'clarity.' Another noun is 'Tabyin' (تَبْيِين), which is the literal verbal noun (masdar) meaning 'the act of clarifying'.

This is a feature of Form II verbs in Arabic. The doubling of the middle root letter (the 'ya' in this case) often adds a causative meaning—making something happen. So, 'to make clear'.

Yes, it is a transitive verb. You must show *something*. If you want to say 'It is clear,' you would use the adjective 'bayyin' or the verb 'tabayyana'.

Absolutely. It is one of the most common verbs used to describe what data, charts, and experiments show. 'Al-tajriba yubayyin...' (The experiment shows...).

It appears many times, usually referring to God making His signs or laws clear to people. It carries a sense of divine guidance and mercy through clarity.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'يُبَيِّن' and 'المعلم'.

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writing

Translate: 'The report shows that the economy is good.'

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writing

Write the imperative form of 'yubayyin' for a group of people.

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writing

Use 'يُبَيِّن' in a sentence about a map.

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writing

Translate: 'Can you show me the way?'

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writing

Write a sentence in the past tense using 'bayyana'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'yubayyin' and 'al-haqiqa' (the truth).

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writing

Translate: 'History shows us many lessons.'

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writing

Write the first-person plural present form of 'yubayyin'.

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writing

Use 'yubayyin' in a sentence about a video tutorial.

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writing

Translate: 'The contract clarifies the rights.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'yubayyin' and 'bi-wuduh' (clearly).

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writing

Translate: 'Why didn't you clarify the reason?'

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writing

Write a sentence about a scientific discovery showing something.

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writing

Translate: 'The statistics show a decline in prices.'

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writing

Use the word 'Mubin' in a short sentence.

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writing

Translate: 'Show me your work.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'yubayyin' in the future tense.

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writing

Translate: 'The diagram shows the population distribution.'

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writing

Write a sentence using the passive 'yubayyan'.

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speaking

Say 'The teacher explains the lesson' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'Show me the way' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The report shows that...' in Arabic.

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speaking

Explain a simple rule using 'yubayyin'.

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speaking

Say 'I will clarify everything' in Arabic.

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speaking

Ask someone to clarify their opinion.

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speaking

Say 'The chart shows the results' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'History shows the truth' in Arabic.

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speaking

Use 'yubayyin' to talk about a map.

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speaking

Say 'He showed his true character' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The video shows the steps' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'The research clarifies the relationship' in Arabic.

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speaking

Say 'God clarifies His signs' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The contract shows the duties' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Can you show me your ID?' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The statistics show a decline' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'This example clarifies the rule' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'We show our point of view' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The writer showed the conflict' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The light shows the details' in Arabic.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the verb: 'يُبَيِّنُ التقريرُ الأرباحَ.'

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

Listen and identify the subject: 'تُبَيِّنُ الخريطةُ الطريقَ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'بَيَّنَ لي أخي الحقيقةَ.'

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

Listen and identify the object: 'يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ الدرسَ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'يُبَيِّنُ البحثُ أهميةَ النومِ.'

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

Listen and identify the tense: 'سَيُبَيِّنُ الوقتُ كلَّ شيءٍ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'هل يمكنكَ أنْ تُبَيِّنَ لي كَيْفَ؟'

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

Listen and identify the speaker: 'نحنُ نُبَيِّنُ الحقَّ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'بَيَّنَ الكاتبُ وجهةَ نظرهِ.'

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

Listen and identify the recipient: 'يُبَيِّنُ المعلمُ للطلابِ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'يُبَيِّنُ الجدولُ المواعيدَ.'

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

Listen and identify the mood: 'يجبُ أنْ نُبَيِّنَ.'

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

Listen and translate: 'لمْ يُبَيِّنِ المديرُ السببَ.'

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

Listen and identify the root: 'يُبَيِّنُ'.

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

Listen and translate: 'بَيِّنْ لي عَمَلَكَ.'

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

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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