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Admit
اعترف (iftarafa) is a verb meaning 'to admit' or 'to confess,' used when someone acknowledges something they previously denied or concealed. It implies taking responsibility for an action, truth, or mistake, and is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. The word carries a sense of honesty and transparency.
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اعترف الطالب بأنه لم يدرس للامتحان.
Iftarafa al-talib bi-annahu lam yadrus lil-imtihan.
The student admitted that he didn't study for the exam.
اعترفت بخطئها وطلبت الاعتذار.
Iftarafat bi-khata'iha wa-talabat al-ita'izar.
She admitted her mistake and asked for forgiveness.
اعترف الرجل بجريمته أمام المحكمة.
Iftarafa al-rajul bi-jarimitahu amam al-mahkamah.
The man confessed to his crime before the court.
يجب أن تعترف بالحقيقة في النهاية.
Yajib an ta'tarifa bil-haqiqah fi al-nihayah.
You must admit the truth eventually.
اعترفنا بأننا أخطأنا في القرار.
Iftarafna bi-annana akhta'na fi al-qarar.
We admitted that we made a mistake in the decision.
In Arabic culture, admitting mistakes and speaking truthfully are highly valued in Islamic tradition, reflected in the concept of 'tawbah' (repentance). The word اعترف is frequently used in legal contexts, religious discourse, and personal relationships. It represents a significant moment of honesty and vulnerability in Arab society, where maintaining honor is important, making genuine admissions even more meaningful.
Remember that اعترف requires the preposition 'بـ' (bi-) when followed by what is being admitted (e.g., اعترف بالحقيقة). This verb is reflexive in nature—it's about taking responsibility rather than simply reporting information. Pay attention to the context: it can be used positively (admitting responsibility) or in legal settings (confessing to a crime).
The Arabic verb اعترف (iftarafa) is one of the most important verbs for expressing admission, acknowledgment, or confession. Whether in legal proceedings, personal relationships, or everyday conversations, this verb plays a crucial role in Arab communication. Understanding how to use اعترف correctly will enhance your ability to participate in authentic Arabic conversations.
اعترف (iftarafa) translates to 'to admit,' 'to confess,' or 'to acknowledge.' The word carries the implication of revealing something previously hidden or denied. Unlike simply stating a fact, اعترف implies a level of honesty and often courage, as it frequently involves admitting something unfavorable or taking responsibility for a mistake.
اعترف is a Form VIII (derived) verb, which is why it begins with the prefix ا (i-). In the present tense, it conjugates as follows:
Past tense forms include اعترفت (iftaraft) for feminine singular and اعترفنا (iftarafna) for first person plural.
When using اعترف, the preposition بـ (bi-) is essential. It introduces what is being admitted:
In Islamic tradition, admission of faults and truthfulness are highly valued virtues. The Quran emphasizes the importance of honesty and sincere repentance (tawbah). اعترف is often used in the context of seeking forgiveness, both from Allah and from other people. In Arab society, the ability to admit mistakes demonstrates maturity and character, even though it may affect one's honor or status.
In courts and legal proceedings, اعترف carries significant weight. When a defendant اعترف بالجريمة (admits to the crime), it can be a turning point in the case.
In families and friendships, اعترف is used to restore trust. For example: اعترفت بأنني أخطأت في حقك (I admit that I wronged you).
People use اعترف in casual contexts too: اعترف أنني نسيت (I admit I forgot).
English speakers sometimes forget the preposition بـ, saying اعترف الحقيقة instead of اعترف بالحقيقة. Remember that the structure is always اعترف بـ + what is being admitted. Additionally, don't confuse اعترف (to admit) with أقرّ (to confirm/acknowledge), which has a slightly different connotation of accepting something already known.
To master اعترف, practice using it in full sentences with the بـ preposition. Create personal examples related to situations you might encounter in Arabic-speaking environments. Listen to Arabic media to hear how native speakers use this verb naturally, especially in news reports, interviews, or dramatic scenes involving confessions or admissions.