Bil Shami
Say What? 33 Damascene Phrases Only Locals Understand
The Shammi dialect is full of expressions that are witty, straight to the point, and sometimes downright untranslatable! These phrases don’t need much explanation because they capture the situation perfectly without extra words. But today, we’re diving into 33 Damascene phrases that Google simply couldn’t figure out—because let’s be real, only a true Shammi would get them!
1. Saar w Tsawar
When someone who used to be low-key or struggling suddenly appears wealthy and successful out of nowhere.
2. Faye’ w Raye’ (فايق ورايق)
Describes someone relaxed, carefree, and has zero responsibilities. Sometimes used sarcastically when someone is being too chill in stressful times.
3. Bshahmo w Lahmo
Used when you see someone in person after a long time and can’t believe it. “Yeah, it’s really me, in the flesh!”
4. El Sharde w El Warde
This Damascene phrase refers to every single tiny detail of a story or situation.
5. Kani Mani
When someone is hesitating or stalling during negotiations, you tell them, “Just get to the point!”
6. Tabkh w Nafkh (طبخ ونفخ)
No explanation needed—cooking and bragging about it!
7. Tabl w Zamr
When there’s too much noise, whether from a loud party or meaningless chatter.
8. Tanne w Ranne
Used to describe an exaggerated fuss, whether it’s about gossip or over-the-top actions.
9. Felan w Allan
A way to talk about people without naming names. It’s also used when someone tries to shift blame: “Don’t tell me Felan w Allan—just admit it was you!”
10. Ham w Gham
A dramatic way to say someone’s life is full of stress and sadness.
11. Hein w Mein
Describes things that happen rarely or at random: “I only see him Hein w Mein—like once in a blue moon!”
12. Sad w Rad
When a conversation turns into a back-and-forth argument.
13. Takh w Tikh
A loud and chaotic fight, either verbal or physical.
14. Khad w Ain / Khod w Aati
Used when a discussion drags on with endless back-and-forth exchanges.
15. Seri Merri
When someone keeps visiting a place without a clear reason, sometimes to the point of being annoying.
16. Elli La Elak
A phrase used in heated discussions, meaning “Listen, let me tell you something!”
17. Siyah Niyah
Describes a huge, empty space—like a massive house.
18. Nat Ma Hatt
Refers to someone jumping from pain or shock without stopping.
19. Sharwi Gharwi
A classic Damascus phrase meaning “total nonsense.”
20. Khabt Lazq
Used when something is done in a rushed, unplanned way.
21. Asheh Lafeh
A phrase that simply means “everything.”
22. Haqq Baqq
When someone is being offered something but pretends they don’t want it, people say, “His heart is screaming Haqq Baqq” (meaning he actually really wants it).
23. ayem a’ed / Day’a El Tasseh
Describes a chaotic situation where there’s no authority to control the madness.
24. La Byhesh w La Bynesh
Describes someone who is completely useless and contributes nothing.
25. Khodni Jeetak
When an argument goes on forever without any real conclusion.
26. Teeti Teeti
A way to say that after all that effort, nothing changed: “Teeti Teeti, same as before!”
27. Min Beit Shaqa’ La Beit Raqa’
Describes someone who is always jumping from one place to another, spreading rumors and causing drama.
28. Ma Befoot Lsano La Hal’o
Used for people who just won’t stop talking.
29. Khantak Mantak
When two things or people are exactly alike.
30. Darrab El Sekhin
An irritated, generic response someone gives when they’re annoyed, like answering “What’s for dinner?” with “Darrab El Sekhin!”
31. Mghawtan
Means someone is completely out of it or unconscious.
32. Falej La T’alej
A way of saying, “Don’t even bother,” because whatever you’re trying to fix is hopeless.
33. Wli Ala Amti
A dramatic phrase expressing regret or frustration, like “Oh no, what have I done?!”
These expressions are a big part of Shammi culture, reflecting the humor, wit, and effortless way of describing life’s complexities. Which phrase is your favorite? Did we miss any? Let us know!
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