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Expensive
غالي (ghāli) is an adjective meaning 'expensive' or 'costly,' used to describe something with a high price or value. It can also mean 'precious' or 'dear' in the sense of being highly valued or cherished. This word is commonly used in everyday conversations about shopping, prices, and the cost of goods and services.
Worksheets, games, and lesson plans for Years 1-11
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هذا الفستان غالي جداً.
Hādhā al-fistān ghāli jiddan.
This dress is very expensive.
أسعار السيارات الفارهة غالية جداً في هذا المتجر.
As'ār as-sayyārāt al-fāriha ghālya jiddan fī hādhā al-matjar.
The prices of luxury cars are very expensive in this store.
الذهب والماس مواد غالية الثمن.
Adh-dhahab wa-al-māas mawād ghālya ath-thaman.
Gold and diamonds are expensive materials.
لا أستطيع شراء هذا الهاتف لأنه غالي جداً.
Lā astațī' sharā' hādhā al-hātif li-annahu ghāli jiddan.
I cannot buy this phone because it is too expensive.
صديقتي غالية لي جداً.
Sadīqatī ghālya lī jiddan.
My friend is very dear/precious to me.
In Arab markets and souks, discussing prices and whether items are غالي (expensive) is a common and accepted part of the haggling culture. Understanding price-related vocabulary is essential for shopping in Arabic-speaking countries, where negotiating prices is often expected, especially in traditional bazaars. The word also carries emotional weight when used metaphorically to describe people or things that are deeply valued and cherished.
Remember that غالي can function both as a simple descriptor of price and as a term of endearment when referring to people or memories. When shopping, you might hear 'غالي شوي' (ghāli shway) meaning 'a bit expensive.' The word agrees with gender and number in Arabic, so it becomes غالية for feminine singular nouns. Use this word when comparing prices or expressing that something exceeds your budget.
The Arabic word غالي (ghāli) is one of the most frequently used adjectives in everyday Arabic conversations. It translates primarily to 'expensive' or 'costly,' but it carries broader meanings that extend beyond simple price descriptions. This word is essential for anyone learning Arabic, especially those planning to visit or do business in Arabic-speaking countries.
غالي is an adjective that describes something with a high price tag or considerable monetary value. In its most literal sense, it refers to items, products, or services that cost a significant amount of money. However, the word also carries metaphorical meanings, such as 'precious,' 'dear,' or 'valuable' when referring to people, relationships, or intangible things that are cherished or highly esteemed.
The word can be used in various contexts:
As an adjective, غالي must agree with the noun it describes in gender and number:
For example:
In everyday Arabic conversations, particularly in shopping and market contexts, غالي appears constantly. You might hear phrases like:
In traditional Arab markets and souks, discussing whether prices are غالي is part of the cultural negotiation process. Customers are often expected to haggle and discuss prices openly.
Understanding غالي becomes easier when you learn related words:
While غالي is the most common word for expensive, you may also encounter:
Each of these words carries slightly different connotations. باهظ suggests something is unreasonably expensive, while ثمين emphasizes the value and importance rather than just the high price.
In Arab culture, the concept of price and value is closely tied to negotiation and discussion. Understanding غالي and how to use it appropriately is important for:
When used to describe a person as غالي, it's a compliment meaning they are precious, dear, or highly valued. For example, أنت غالي عندي (you are precious to me) expresses deep affection and regard.
To master غالي and its usage:
By incorporating غالي into your Arabic vocabulary with proper understanding of its cultural context and grammatical forms, you'll be better equipped for real-world Arabic communication, especially in commercial and social settings.