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Part 2: Navigating Darija: Essential Verbs and Everyday Expressions.

Hi, I’m Hassan ¨the Marrakesh Insider¨- I want to first Welcome you back to our journey through the Moroccan dialect, Darija.

if you can remember the first part of our series, ‘Moroccan Wanderlust: A Journey Through Darija for Nomades,’ we laid the groundwork with essential pronouns and question words.

Today, in Part 2, we will shift our focus to the verbs and phrases in different tenses which form the backbone of daily communication in my country.

My goal is to equip you with key expressions and a basic understanding of verb usage, helping you navigate various everyday situations with ease and confidence.

starting with:

A- Understanding Past, Present and future Tenses in Darija:

Moroccan Arabic, commonly known as Darija, exhibits a unique approach to verb tenses, distinct from the patterns observed in English and many other languages.

Grasping the nuances of how past, present, and future tenses are expressed in Darija is crucial for learners. Let’s delve into some essential aspects to understand the use of these tenses in the Moroccan dialect.

first of all, you should Understand the Root System.

Most verbs in Darija are based on a root system, typically consisting of three consonants.

For example, the root for “to write” is ك-ت-ب (k-t-b). Understanding the root of a verb is very important, as it carries the core meaning.

second, you should Learn the Common Patterns.

Verb conjugation often involves inserting these roots into patterns.

These patterns include prefixes, suffixes, and infixes that change according to tense and subject.

For instance, the present tense often uses the prefix “كَ” (ka-) for “I”. So, “I write” becomes “كنكتب” (kan-kteb), combining the prefix “كَن” (kan-) with the root “كتب” (kteb).

then, regularly Practice in Context.

this one is vital.

try to Conjugate verbs within sentences or phrases rather than in isolation, This helps in understanding their use in real-life contexts, for sure, engaging and communicating with locals will make the process easier.

let’s now dive into our three main tenses.

1. Past Tense:

Simplicity: The past tense in Darija is generally simpler than the present tense. Usually, it involves using the verb in its root form, with slight modifications depending on the subject.

Suffixes: In some cases, suffixes are added to indicate the past tense. For example, “شرب” (sherb – to drink) becomes “شربت” (shrabt) for ¨I drank¨, where “ت” (t) is a suffix indicating the past tense for the first person singular.

2.Present Tense:

Prefixes and Suffixes: In Darija, the present tense often involves adding prefixes or suffixes to the verb root. For example, the verb “to go” (مشا – msha) becomes “كنمشي” (kanmshi) for “I go” where “كن” (kan) is a prefix indicating the present tense.

Consistency: The prefix remains relatively consistent across different subjects, but the verb root may undergo slight changes depending on the subject pronoun.

3.Future Tense:

Using “غادي” (Ghadi) for Future Tense: In Darija, the future tense is often formed by using the word “غادي” (ghadi) before the verb. It functions similarly to “going to” in English. for example: “غادي نكتب” (Ghadi nkteb) for “I am going to write”. where “غادي” (Ghadi) is a prefix indicating the future tense.

Consistency: The good news is that “غادي” (ghadi) remains consistent regardless of the subject. so, use “غادي” (ghadi) with the present tense form of the verb. This simplifies learning, as you only need to know the present tense conjugation.

4. Tenses Influencing Factors:

  • Subject Pronouns: The conjugation of the verb changes depending on the subject pronoun (I, you, he, she, etc.).
  • Regular vs. Irregular Verbs: As in many languages, Darija has both regular and irregular verbs, and the latter may not follow standard conjugation rules.
  • Contextual Usage: Sometimes, the tense is implied through context rather than explicitly stated, especially in casual conversation.Practical Implications

Examples:

1. To Work – خدم (khdm/5dm)

Present: أنا كنخدم فشركة. (Ana kan5dm fsh-sharika.)

English: I am working at the company.

Past: خدمت فمشروع كبير. (5demt fmsh-mashru3 kebir.)

English: I worked on a big project.

Future: غادي نخدم في شركة جديدة. (Ghadi n5dm fsh-sharika jdida.)

English: I am going to work at a new company.

2. To Sleep – نعس (n3s):

Present: هي كتنعس بكري. (Hiya katn3es bekri.)

English: She sleeps early.

Past: نعست معطل البارح. (N3est m3eṭl al-barre7.)

English: I slept late last night.

Future: غادي تنعس بكري الليلة. (Ghādi tnaʿs bəkrī al-līla.)

English: You are going to sleep early tonight.

3. To Buy – شرا (shra):

Present: كنشري الخبز كل صباح. (Kanshri al-khubz kull ṣba7.)

English: I buy bread every morning.

Past: شريت كادو لصاحبي. (Shrit cadeau liṣa7bi.)

English: I bought a gift for my friend.

Future: غادي نشري اوطو جديدة. (Ghadi nsheri auto jdida.) (auto means automobile.)

English: I am going to buy a new car.

4. To Write – كتب (kteb)

Present: كنكتب رسالة. (Kankteb risala.)

English: I am writing a letter.

Past: كتبت الإيميل لبارح. (Ktebt lemail lbare7.)

English: I wrote the email yesterday.

Future: غادي نكتب رواية. (Ghadi nkteb riwaya.)

English: I am going to write a novel.

5. To Listen – سمع (sm3)

Present: كيسمع الموسيقى ديما. (Kaysme3 lmusi9a dima.)

English: He always listens to music.

Past: سمعت الأخبار اليوم. (Sm3t akhbar al-yawm.)

English: I listened to the news today.

Future: غادي نسمع الألبوم جديد ديال طوطو اليوم بالليل. (Ghadi nsm3 la-lbum jadid dyal Toto lyum blil.)

English: I am going to listen to ToTo’s new album today night.

B-Everyday Expressions Using These Verbs:

Greetings and Farewells

  • Hello:

Darija: سلام (Salam)

  • Good Morning:

Darija: صباح الخير (Sba7 al-5ir)

  • Good Evening:

Darija: مساء الخير (Mas2e al-5ir)

  • Goodbye:

Darija: بسلامة (Bslama)

  • See You Later:

Darija: نشوفك على خير (Nshufk 3la khir)

Expressions of Courtesy

  • Please:

Darija: أفاك (3afak)

  • Thank You:

Darija: شكرا (Shukran).

  • You’re Welcome:

Darija: العفو (Al-3afw)

  • Excuse Me:

Darija: سمح لي (Sm7 li)

  • May I…?:

Darija: واش يمكن لي…؟ (Wash ymkn li…?)

Common Questions and Responses

  • How are you?

Darija: كي داير؟ (Ki dayr?)

  • I’m good, thank you.

Darija: لاباس، شكرا (Labas, shukran)

  • What’s your name?

Darija: شنو سميتك؟ (Shnu smiytk?)

  • My name is…

Darija: سميتي… (Smiyti..)

  • Where are you from?

Darija: منين نتا؟ (Minin nta?)

Shopping

  • How much is this?

Darija: بشحال هادا؟ (Bsh7al hada?)

  • Can you reduce the price a bit?

Darija: ممكن تنقص ثمن شي شويا.؟ (Mumkin tn9ṣ ṭaman shi shewiya?)

  • Do you accept Visa credit cards?

Darija: واش كتقبلو كارط فيزا؟ (Wash kat9blu carte visa?)

  • I’m just looking, thanks.

Darija: غير كنشوف، شكرا. (Ghir kanshuf, shukran.)

  • I would like to buy this.

Darija: بغيت نشري هادا. (Bghit nshri hada.)

Dining:

  • A table for two, please.

Darija: واحد طابلة برا ديال جوج تناس أفاك. (Wa7ed ṭabla ber4a dyal zuj tnass 3afak.)

  • Can I see the menu?

Darija: يمكن نشوف المنيو؟ (Ymkn nshuf al-menu?)

  • What do you recommend?

Darija: شنو كتنصح؟ (Shnu katnṣa7?)

  • I’m allergic to…

Darija: عندي حساسية من… (3andi 7assassiya mn…)

  • The bill, please.

Darija: الحساب أفاك. (Al 7isab, 3afak.)

Directions:

  • Where is the bathroom?

Darija: فين كاينة الطواليت؟ (Fin kayna aṭ-ṭwalit?)

  • How do I get to the hotel?

Darija: كيفاش نمشي للفندق؟ (Kifash nmshi l-hotel?)

  • Is it far?

Darija: واش بعيد؟ (Wash b3id?)

  • Can you show me on the map?

Darija: ممكن توريني بلاصتي فالخريطة؟ (Mumkin twrini blassty fl-5ariṭa?)

  • I’m lost.

Darija: أنا موضر. (Ana mweder.)

C.Phrases for Everyday Scenarios:

1. At a Hotel (في الفندق – fī al-funduq)

  • Checking In:

Darija: بغيت نسجل دخول ديالي . (Bghit nsajal dukul dyali.)

  • Asking for Wi-Fi Password:

Darija: اشنو هوا المودباص ديال الويفي ديالكم؟ (ashno huwa mot de passe dyal wifi dyalkum?)

  • Requesting a Wake-Up Call:

Darija: ممكن عفاك تفيقني غدا مع سبعة تصباح؟ (Mumkin 3afak tfy9ni 4eda m3a seb3a tsba7?)

  • Asking for Room Service:

Darija: بغيت نطلب الخدمة ديال الغرفة. (Bghit nṭlb al-5idma dyal al-4urfa.)

  • Checking Out:

Darija: بغيت نسجل خروج ديالي . (Bghit nsajal khruj dyali.)

2. In a Taxi (في الطاكسي – f-Taxi)

  • Telling the Driver Your Destination:

Darija: عفاك ممكن تديني ل … (3afak, mumkin tedini l…)

  • Asking for deal:

Darija: بشحال غتديني ل(بلاصة)…؟ (Bsh7al 4atdini l(blassa) …?)

  • Requesting the Driver to Wait:

Darija: ممكن تسناني شويه ؟ (Mumkin tstanna shwiya?)

  • Asking to Stop Here:

Darija: وقف هنا عفاك. (W9f hna 3afak.)

  • Requesting the Driver to Take a Specific Route:

Darija: عفاك، دوزنا من هاد الطريق. (3afak dewezna mn had teri9.)

3.Inquiring About a Product:

  • asking the shop owner if the items are new made or vintage:

Darija: واش هاد السلعة يلاه تصاوبات ولا قديما؟ (Wash had sel3a 9edima ola jedida?)

  • Asking for a Demonstration:

Darija: يمكن توريني كيفاش كيخدم؟ (mumkin twrini kifash kay5dem?)

  • Negotiating the Price:

Darija: ممكن تنقص ثمن شوية؟ (mumkn tn9ṣ taman shwiyya?)

  • Asking for Another Color or Size:

Darija: عندك هادشي فشي لون و قياس اخرين؟ (3endek hadshi fshi lune w 9yasse a5or?)

  • Confirming a Purchase:

Darija: صافي انا ناخد هدا. (safi, ana n-a5ed hada.)

4. At a Café (في المقهى – fī al-maqhā)

  • Ordering Coffee:

Darija: بغيت قهوة بالحليب عفاك. (Bghit 9ahwa bel-7lib 3afak.)

  • Asking for a Takeaway:

Darija: جمع ليا عفاك هادشي بغيت ناخدو معايا. (Jme3 liya 3afak hadshi lib9a bghit na5do m3aya)

  • Requesting a Table Outside:

Darija: بغيت طابلة بر عفاك . (Bghit ṭabla barra 3afak.)

  • Inquiring About Pastries or Snacks:

Darija: عندكم شي حلويات أو سناكس؟ (3andkum shi 7alawiyat aw snaks?)

  • Asking for a Specific Table:

Darija: ممكن نجلسو فديك الطابلة لي لهيه؟ (mumkin nglesso f dik table li-lhih?)

5. At a Historical Site (في موقع تاريخي – fī maw9i3 tari5i)

  • Asking for a Tour Guide:

Darija: فين نقدر نلقى دليل سياحي؟ (Fin n9der nl9a dalil siya7i?)

  • Inquiring About the History:

Darija: شنو هيا القصه ديال هاد البلاصة؟ (Shnu hiya l9issa dyal had lblassa ?)

  • Asking About Closing Time:

Darija: مع اش تتسدو؟ (m3a ash tatsedu?)

  • Requesting Permission for Photography:

Darija: واش ممكن نصور؟ (Wash mumkin nssewer?)

  • Asking for the Entrance Fee:

Darija: بشحال الدخول؟ (Bech7al d5ul?)

D.Cultural Notes: Moroccan Communication Style and Etiquette

Understanding the cultural nuances of communication in Morocco is as important as learning the language itself.

Moroccan society places a high value on politeness, respect, and community, which is reflected in their communication style and etiquette.

1.Respect and Formality:

  • Titles and Respect: Using titles like “Lalla” for women and “Sidi”, ¨Moulay¨, L7aj, sherif, si, for men shows respect, especially when addressing older individuals or those in authority.
  • Greeting Formality: Greetings often involve asking about one’s health and family, reflecting the value placed on personal relationships and well-being.

2. Hospitality and Generosity:

  • Invitations: Moroccans are known for their hospitality. Accepting tea or a meal when offered is a sign of respect and helps in building relationships.
  • Gift-Giving: When invited to a Moroccan home, it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as pastries or flowers.

3.Non-Verbal Communication:

  • Gestures: Non-verbal cues, like maintaining eye contact and using hand gestures, are an integral part of communication.
  • Physical Space: Personal space may be closer than what some Westerners are used to. It’s common for conversations to occur at a closer distance.

4.Formal vs Informal Speech:

  • Formal Settings: In formal situations, such as business meetings or when addressing elders, more respectful language and a formal tone are used.
  • Informal Settings: Among friends and younger people, speech is more relaxed, and local slang or French/Amazigh terms may be interwoven into Darija.

E.Practical Examples:

  • Elizabeth: السلام عليكم، عفاك، ممكن تديني لجامع الفنا. (Assalamu 3alaykum, 3afak mumkin tdini l-Jama3 al-Fna.) (Hello, please take me to Jemaa el-Fna.)
  • Taxi Driver: وعليكم السلام، طبعا، يالله نمشيو. (Wa3alaykumu s-salam, ṭab3an, yallah nmshiw.) (Hello, of course, let’s go.)

After arriving at Jemaa el-Fna

  • Elizabeth: صافي وقف هي هنايا, safi we9f hi hnaya. (that’s enough, would you stop here?
  • Taxi Driver: طبعا, بغيتي نستناك هنا باش نرضك لرياض؟(Tab3an, Bghity ntsenak hnaya bach n4edek lriad?) (of course, do you want me to wait for you here to take you back.?)
  • Elizabeth: شحال غادي يكون الثمن الي روتور؟ (she7al aykun taman aller retour?) (How much will the cost be for a round trip?)
  • Taxi Driver: خمسين درهم. (5emsin dirham) (fifty dirhams.)
  • Elizabeth: اوك، صافي ، هي تسناني انا نرجع بالزربة. (ok, safi, hi-tsenanni ana nerje3 bezerba.) (okay, cool. just wait I will be right back quickly.)

Elizabeth returns after a short while

  • Elizabeth: شكرا على هاد الوقفه ليدرتي .ممكن تديني لشي قهوة زوينة هنا، مزال مبغيت نرجع لرياض.؟ (Shukran 3ela hada lwe9efa liderty, mumkin tedini db l shi 9ehewa zuina hna, mazal mabghit nereje3 l riad?) (Thank you for waiting. Can you take me to a beautiful coffee shop near by, i don’t want to go back to the triad.)
  • Taxi Driver: طبعا، انا نديك لاحسن قهوة كاين فمراكش (tab3an ana ndik l 2a7essan 9ehewa kain f-marrakesh) (Of course, I will take you to the best coffee shop in marrakesh.)

After visiting several coffee shops

  • Elizabeth: صافي انا غنجلس فهادي عجتني من برا بزاف. هاد النهار داز زوين بزاف، شكراً. (Safi, ana rangless fhadi, 3ejbatni mn be4a bzf, had nhar daz zuin bzf. shukran) (cool, i will set here, i like it from the outside, Today was very nice, thank you for your help.)
  • Taxi Driver: العفو، مرحبا بيك فالمغرب. (Al-3afuw, mer7ba bik f-elmgherib) (You’re welcome, You are always welcome in Morocco.)

Elizabeth entrees the coffee and asks for the waiter.

  • Elizabeth: ممكن عفاك تصاوب ليا طبله على برا؟ (mumkin 3afak tessaweb liya table be4a) (can you set a table outside for me please?
  • The waiter: اه، طبعا.(Ah, Tab3an) (yes, of course).

the waiter made a table, and Elizbeth took her set… after a couple of minutes.

  • The waiter: اش تشربي اليوم.(Ash tesherbi lyuma).
  • Elizabeth: ممكن المونيو نشوف اشنو عندكم (mumkin menu dylkum nshuf ashno endkum) (would you please handle me the menu so that I could look at what you are offering.
  • The waiter: اه، طبعا.(Ah, Tab3an) (yes, of course).

Elizabeth look at the menu, after 5 mins.

  • Elizabeth:  .عفاك، جيب ليا قهوة بالحليب و كيكا تشكلاط. (3fak jib liya 9ehewa b-l7lib w kika b chuclat) (would you please bring me a coffee with milk and chocolate bread)
  • The waiter: اه، طبعا, شيحاجه اخرى؟.(Ah, Tab3an, shi 7aja o5era) (yes, of course, anything else?).
  • Elizabeth: لا شكرا, (La, shukran)(No, thanks).

Elizabeth spent 45 min enjoying her order and now wanted to leave.

  • Elizabeth: ممكن الحساب (mumkin l7issab) (can i get the receipt)
  • The waiter: 120 DH اه، طبعا عندك .(Ah, Tab3an, 3endk 120 Dh) (yes, of course, the total is 120 DH).
  • Elizabeth: تتقبلو ماستر كارد؟, (Tat9belo Master Card).(do you accept a master card).
  • The waiter: اه، طبعا.(Ah, Tab3an) (yes, of course).

she paid the invoice, tipped the waiter, and took her taxi back to the riad.

The Bottom Line:

With the essential verbs and everyday phrases from Part 2 in your linguistic toolkit, you are now better prepared to navigate the vibrant culture and interactions of Morocco. Each phrase you master not only enhances your Darija skills but also brings you closer to the heart of Moroccan life. Excitingly, Part 3 awaits, ready to take you further into the captivating depths of this beautiful language. Continue practicing, and embrace the rich experiences your new skills will unlock!

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