Copy
النسخة (an-nuskha) is an Arabic noun meaning 'copy' or 'version,' referring to a reproduction or duplicate of an original document, text, or file. It can also mean 'edition' when referring to different versions of a book or publication. This word is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe copies of official documents, software versions, or manuscript reproductions.
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أحتاج إلى نسخة من جواز سفري للتقديم على التأشيرة.
Ahtaaj ilaa nuskha min jawaz safari li-at-taqdiim ala at-ta'shira.
I need a copy of my passport to apply for the visa.
هذه النسخة الثالثة من الكتاب تحتوي على تصحيحات جديدة.
Hadhih an-nuskha ath-thalitha min al-kitaab tahtawi ala tashiihaat jadida.
This third edition of the book contains new corrections.
حمّلت النسخة الأخيرة من البرنامج على جهازي.
Hammaltu an-nuskha al-akhira min al-barnaamaj ala jihazi.
I downloaded the latest version of the program on my device.
أعطاني المحامي نسخة من العقد الموقع.
A'ataani al-muhami nuskha min al-aqd al-mawqaa.
The lawyer gave me a copy of the signed contract.
احفظ نسخة احتياطية من ملفاتك المهمة.
Ihfaz nuskha ihtiyatiya min mulaff atika al-muhimma.
Keep a backup copy of your important files.
In Arabic-speaking countries, the concept of 'نسخة' is particularly important in legal and administrative contexts, where official copies of documents are required for various transactions and government procedures. The word is also frequently used in the digital age when discussing software versions, app updates, and digital file management. In traditional Islamic scholarship, the term 'نسخة' has historical significance, as it refers to hand-copied manuscripts of religious texts before the age of printing.
Remember that 'النسخة' is feminine in gender (note the feminine ending 'ة'), so adjectives and verbs used with it must agree with the feminine form. The word is often preceded by adjectives specifying the type of copy: 'نسخة ورقية' (paper copy), 'نسخة إلكترونية' (electronic copy), or 'نسخة احتياطية' (backup copy). In modern usage, it's commonly paired with ordinal numbers to indicate versions: 'النسخة الأولى' (version 1.0), 'النسخة الثانية' (version 2.0).
The Arabic word النسخة (an-nuskha) is a feminine noun that translates to "copy," "version," or "edition" in English. It refers to a reproduction or duplicate of an original item, whether that's a document, text, software, or published work. The word is derived from the root نسخ (n-s-kh), which means "to copy" or "to transcribe." Understanding this word is essential for anyone conducting business, studies, or daily activities in Arabic-speaking environments.
As a feminine noun, النسخة always takes the feminine form, which is indicated by the ة (ta marbuta) at the end. When using this word with adjectives or verbs, they must agree with the feminine gender. For example: "نسخة جديدة" (a new copy - with the feminine adjective جديدة), not "نسخة جديد." This grammatical agreement is crucial for correct Arabic usage.
In modern Arabic usage, النسخة appears in various contexts:
Official and Legal Contexts: Government offices and legal professionals frequently use "نسخة معتمدة" (certified copy) to refer to official, legally recognized duplicates of documents such as passports, birth certificates, and contracts.
Digital Usage: With technology becoming ubiquitous, "نسخة إلكترونية" (electronic copy) and "نسخة رقمية" (digital copy) are increasingly common. Additionally, "نسخة احتياطية" (backup copy) is essential terminology for anyone working with computers or digital files.
Publishing: In the context of books and publications, النسخة often refers to "طبعة" or "edition." You might hear about "النسخة الأولى" (first edition) or "النسخة المحدثة" (updated edition).
Software and Applications: Technology companies use النسخة to indicate software versions, such as "النسخة 2.0" (version 2.0) or "النسخة الجديدة" (new version).
Everyday applications of this word are numerous. When visiting government offices in Arab countries, you'll often hear requests like "أحتاج إلى نسخة من..." (I need a copy of...). In professional settings, employees might be asked to provide "نسخة من السيرة الذاتية" (a copy of your resume). In educational contexts, teachers may refer to "النسخة الأصلية" (the original copy) versus student submissions.
Understanding النسخة is easier when you know related words:
Useful phrases containing النسخة that you should memorize:
In Islamic and Arab scholarship, النسخة has historical significance. Before the invention of printing, manuscripts of the Quran, Hadith, and other important texts were hand-copied by scholars and scribes. These hand-copied نسخ (plural form) are treasured in libraries and museums throughout the Arab world. The study of different manuscript versions and copies has been crucial to Islamic jurisprudence and textual authentication.
In today's digital world, understanding النسخة is more important than ever. IT professionals in Arab countries frequently use terms like:
When learning to use النسخة effectively, remember:
النسخة is an indispensable word for anyone learning Arabic, particularly those planning to work or study in Arab countries. Its versatility across legal, technical, educational, and everyday contexts makes it a high-frequency word that deserves careful study. By understanding its various applications and related terminology, learners can navigate administrative processes, professional environments, and digital interactions with greater confidence and competence in Arabic.