Stressed
#13
مرهق (marhaq) is an adjective meaning 'stressed,' 'exhausted,' or 'worn out.' It describes someone who is physically or mentally drained, overwhelmed by fatigue or pressure. This word is commonly used in modern Arabic to express the state of being tired and stressed from work, responsibilities, or difficult circumstances.
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أنا مرهق جداً من العمل هذا الأسبوع.
Ana marhaq jiddan min al-amal hadha al-usboo.
I am very stressed from work this week.
تبدو مرهقة، هل كنت تعملين طول الليل؟
Tabdo marhaqah, hal kunt ta'maleena tool al-layl?
You look stressed; were you working all night?
الموظفون مرهقون من الضغط في العمل.
Al-muwazzafoon marhaqoon min al-daght fi al-amal.
The employees are stressed from the pressure at work.
شعرت بأنني مرهق بعد الامتحان الصعب.
Shaurt bi-anni marhaq ba'da al-imtihan al-sa'b.
I felt stressed after the difficult exam.
لا تكن مرهقاً، كل شيء سيكون على ما يرام.
La takun marhaqan, kul shay suyakun ala ma yuram.
Don't be stressed; everything will be fine.
In Arab culture, discussing stress and fatigue is increasingly common in modern workplaces and educational settings, though traditionally showing exhaustion might be downplayed in favor of maintaining composure. The word is frequently used in contemporary Arabic media, social networks, and everyday conversations, reflecting the growing awareness of mental health and work-life balance in Arabic-speaking countries. Understanding this word is essential for discussing modern workplace dynamics and personal well-being in Arabic.
مرهق is typically used as an adjective that agrees in gender and number with the noun it describes—مرهق (masculine singular), مرهقة (feminine singular), مرهقون (masculine plural), مرهقات (feminine plural). It can follow the verb 'to be' (كان، بدا، شعر) to describe a state of being. Be careful not to confuse it with similar words like متعب (tired) or مجهد (strained), though they're often used interchangeably in casual speech.
مرهق (marhaq) is a fundamental Arabic adjective that describes the state of being stressed, exhausted, or worn out. The word carries connotations of physical and mental exhaustion, often resulting from pressure, overwork, or difficult circumstances. In contemporary Arabic, it has become increasingly common in both formal and informal contexts, reflecting modern concerns about workplace stress and personal well-being.
مرهق is an adjective derived from the verb أرهق (arhaq), which means "to exhaust" or "to burden." As an adjective, it follows standard Arabic grammar rules and must agree with the noun it modifies in gender and number:
For example: "الموظف مرهق" (the male employee is stressed) versus "الموظفة مرهقة" (the female employee is stressed).
مرهق is versatile and can be used in various contexts. It commonly appears after linking verbs such as:
In contemporary Arabic media and social networks, you'll frequently encounter phrases like "أنا مرهق من العمل" (I'm stressed from work) or "الأوضاع الحالية مرهقة" (the current situation is exhausting).
While مرهق has a specific connotation of exhaustion and stress, several related words carry similar meanings:
These synonyms can often be used interchangeably in casual conversation, though each has subtle differences in emphasis.
To express the opposite state, Arabic learners should know:
In traditional Arab culture, displaying stress or exhaustion was often considered a sign of weakness, and individuals were expected to maintain composure and resilience. However, with globalization and the influence of modern workplace dynamics, discussing stress and mental health has become more acceptable and common. Contemporary Arabic literature, news media, and social networks frequently address the topic of workplace stress and burnout, particularly among young professionals and students.
Young Arabs commonly use مرهق when discussing university examinations, work deadlines, and family responsibilities. The word has gained prominence in mental health discussions and wellness conversations across Arabic-speaking regions.
When learning to use مرهق, remember:
In more formal or literary Arabic, مرهق can be used substantively (as a noun) with the definite article: "المرهقون" (the stressed ones) or "الإرهاق" (exhaustion as an abstract noun). This allows for more nuanced expression in academic writing, journalism, and formal communication.
مرهق is an essential word for anyone learning Arabic, as it allows you to express a common modern experience: stress and exhaustion. Understanding its grammatical forms, related vocabulary, and proper usage will significantly enhance your ability to communicate about emotions and well-being in Arabic. Practice using it in different contexts to develop natural proficiency with this important emotional descriptor.