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Arrogant
متكبّر (mutakabbir) is an adjective meaning 'arrogant,' 'proud,' or 'haughty.' It describes someone who exhibits excessive pride, looks down on others, or acts in a condescending manner. This word carries a strong negative connotation in Arabic culture and Islamic teaching, as humility is highly valued.
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الرجل المتكبّر لا يحترم آراء الآخرين.
Al-rajul al-mutakabbir lā yaḥtarīm āra' al-ākhirīn.
The arrogant man does not respect the opinions of others.
لا تكن متكبّراً على زملائك في العمل.
Lā takun mutakabbiran ʿalā zumalā'ika fī al-ʿamal.
Don't be arrogant toward your coworkers.
سلوكه المتكبّر أبعد الناس عنه.
Sulukhuh al-mutakabbir abʿada al-nās ʿanh.
His arrogant behavior pushed people away from him.
الشخص المتكبّر يرفع نفسه فوق الجميع.
Al-shakhṣ al-mutakabbir yarfaʿ nafsah fawq al-jamīʿ.
The arrogant person elevates himself above everyone.
كان موقفه المتكبّر سبب خسارته للأصدقاء.
Kān mawqifuh al-mutakabbir sabab khisāratih li-al-aṣdiqā'.
His arrogant attitude was the reason for losing his friends.
In Islamic tradition and Arabic culture, arrogance (الكبر al-kibr) is considered one of the most reprehensible character traits, and humility is greatly emphasized. The Quran mentions arrogance as a barrier to faith and righteousness. In daily Arabic life, calling someone متكبّر is a serious criticism, implying they disrespect others and are morally deficient.
This word is typically used as an adjective to describe a person's character or behavior. Remember it's pronounced with emphasis on the doubled 'b' sound (mutakabbir). Be cautious using this word directly at someone, as it's quite insulting; instead, use it to describe someone in the third person or in general discussions about character traits.
The Arabic word متكبّر (mutakabbir) is an adjective that describes someone as arrogant, haughty, proud, or conceited. It refers to a person who exhibits excessive pride and looks down on others with disdain or superiority. This word carries significant negative weight in Arabic culture and Islamic teaching, as humility and respect for others are highly valued virtues.
متكبّر comes from the root ك-ب-ر (k-b-r), which relates to greatness or superiority. When describing a person as متكبّر, you're indicating they have an inflated sense of self-importance and treat others with disrespect. This person refuses to listen to others' opinions and acts as if they are superior to everyone around them.
The word functions as an adjective and agrees with the noun it modifies in gender and number. For example:
In Islamic tradition, arrogance (الكبر al-kibr) is explicitly condemned. The Quran mentions arrogance as one of the characteristics that prevents people from recognizing truth and accepting divine guidance. Islamic teachings emphasize that true greatness comes from humility and respect for others, regardless of their status. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is remembered for his remarkable humility despite his position.
In modern Arabic-speaking societies, calling someone متكبّر is a serious social criticism. It suggests not only that they are rude or disrespectful, but that they lack moral character and spiritual growth.
Understanding related terms helps grasp the full semantic field:
In workplace situations: "موقفه المتكبّر يضر علاقته مع زملائه" (His arrogant attitude harms his relationships with colleagues)
In family discussions: "لا تكن متكبّراً على إخوتك الأصغر" (Don't be arrogant toward your younger siblings)
In social commentary: "الشخص المتكبّر يفقد احترام الناس" (The arrogant person loses people's respect)
Learning to use متكبّر correctly helps you understand how Arabic speakers value character traits and social behavior. It's also crucial for recognizing criticism and understanding cultural values around humility. Mastering this word and its antonyms shows respect for Arabic cultural norms.
Don't confuse متكبّر with simple confidence or self-respect. A confident person isn't necessarily arrogant; however, someone who dismisses others' value and refuses to listen definitely is متكبّر. Additionally, be cautious about using this word to directly address someone, as it's quite insulting and can damage relationships.