Stain
اللطخة (al-lutkhah) is an Arabic noun meaning 'stain' or 'spot,' referring to a mark or discoloration on a surface caused by dirt, liquid, or other substances. It is commonly used in everyday contexts to describe unwanted marks on clothing, walls, or other objects. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe a blemish on one's reputation or character.
Worksheets, games, and lesson plans for Years 1-11
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هناك لطخة من الشوكولاتة على قميصك.
Hunāka lutkhah min ash-shūkulātah 'alá qamīṣak.
There is a chocolate stain on your shirt.
يجب أن نزيل هذه اللطخة قبل أن تجف.
Yajib an nazīl hadhih al-lutkhah qabl an tajiff.
We must remove this stain before it dries.
اللطخة على السجادة لن تختفي بسهولة.
Al-lutkhah 'alá as-sijādah lan takhtafī bi-suhūlah.
The stain on the carpet will not disappear easily.
لا تترك لطخات من الزيت على المائدة.
Lā tatrik lutkhāt min az-zayt 'alá al-māidah.
Do not leave oil stains on the table.
هذه لطخة عار على سمعته.
Hadhih lutkhah 'ār 'alá sum'atuh.
This is a stain on his reputation.
In Arab culture, maintaining cleanliness and a spotless appearance is highly valued, reflecting Islamic principles of physical and spiritual purity. The word اللطخة is frequently used in both literal and figurative contexts—from discussing household cleaning to addressing personal honor and reputation. This dual usage reflects the importance of both physical cleanliness and moral integrity in Arab society.
Remember that اللطخة is a feminine noun (as indicated by the definite article 'ال' and the 'ة' ending), so adjectives must agree in gender. The word is versatile and can describe physical stains as well as metaphorical blemishes on character or reputation. When used with possessive pronouns, ensure proper agreement: لطختي (my stain), لطختك (your stain), etc.
اللطخة (al-lutkhah) is an Arabic feminine noun that translates to 'stain,' 'spot,' or 'mark.' The word refers to a visible discoloration or mark on a surface caused by dirt, liquid substances, or other contaminants. In everyday Arabic, this word is essential for discussing household cleaning, laundry, and general hygiene. Beyond its literal meaning, اللطخة can also be used metaphorically to describe a blemish or mark on someone's character or reputation.
As a feminine noun in Arabic, اللطخة follows standard feminine grammatical rules. The word carries the feminine marker 'ة' (tā' marbūṭah) at the end, indicating it is inherently feminine. When used with adjectives or in descriptive phrases, all modifiers must agree in gender and number. The plural form is لطخ (lutakh) or لطخات (lutkhāt), depending on the context and sentence structure.
In practical contexts, Arabs use اللطخة when discussing:
The word is commonly heard in household conversations, particularly when discussing cleaning tasks or when reacting to accidental spills.
Beyond literal stains, اللطخة holds significant cultural meaning in Arab society. It is frequently used to describe a blemish on someone's honor, reputation, or character. For example, "لطخة على سمعته" (a stain on his reputation) refers to something that has negatively affected someone's standing in the community. This metaphorical usage reflects the importance placed on honor and integrity in Arab culture, where one's reputation is carefully guarded.
Several related words expand on the concept of stains and cleanliness:
To better understand how اللطخة is used:
When learning to use اللطخة, remember:
In Islamic tradition, cleanliness is considered a virtue and part of faith. This cultural emphasis on purity and cleanliness extends to both physical cleanliness and moral integrity. Therefore, the word اللطخة, whether used literally or figuratively, carries weight in Arab culture and reflects values of order, respect, and personal responsibility.
The word اللطخة is a practical and culturally significant term in Arabic that every learner should master. Its dual usage—both literal and metaphorical—demonstrates the richness of Arabic vocabulary and the importance of context in understanding meaning. By studying this word in depth, learners gain not only linguistic knowledge but also insight into Arab cultural values and daily communication patterns.