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The adjectives of colour are peculiar; e.g.,
abiad, white; (fern.) beyda.
āḥmar, red; (fem.) ḥamara (hence Alhambra).
A list of these is given on page 34.
POLITE DICTION.
It is not impolite, as in most European languages, to use the 2nd person singular; but it is usual in speaking to equals to use the word ḥāderet, presence. Thus, instead of inta, thou, and huwa, he, one says politely ḥādrétak, ḥādrétu. It is not necessary when the expression used is in itself polite; as, Min fadlak, Please! Kattar kheyrak, Thank you! Allāh yeḥfázak, God keep you! Nehārak sa, īd, Good morning! Leyltak sa'īdah, Good evening!
If the person addressed is of much higher rank, the word sa'adetak or sa'adetkum should be used, and pronounced sa'ādtak, sa'ādtkum.
It is well to be familiar with the expressions by which God is invoked. Thus, Allah! is often 'used during a pause in conversation; Bismillah! In the name of God! (on starting work or a journey); Insha, Allah! Please God I (used constantly for perhaps); Masha, Allah! an expression of surprise or admiration (in the latter case with the intention of avoiding the evil eye). Yallah! By God! (used always for "Go on!" "Let us proceed! " &c.).[1]
On entering a room or house, one is addressed with the words Marḥabba! (Welcome!) or more cordially with Āhlan wa'sāhlan! (Make yourself at home!).
As a rule, the expression Salām' aleykum! (Peace be upon you!) is reserved by Mohammedans for Mohammedans, but if used to a Christian or other should be answered by 'Aleykum es salām! (On you be peace!).
Politeness requires that on all occasions of making an offer of a seat, cigarette, coffee, &c., the word Itfáddal (Be gracious) must be used as a preliminary.
- ↑ Wallah! is a form of oath for By God!"
