كَلّا — meaning in English: Both

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Guess the translation for not at all

حَتْم

مُنتَظَر

مُخَصِّص

كَلّا

تَحليل، تَحاليل

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use كَلّا when discussing choices or preferences, such as deciding between two options. For instance, in a café setting, a friend might ask if you want tea or coffee, and you could respond with كَلّا to indicate that you would like both.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'كلاهما' (both of them), which emphasizes the duality more explicitly. While كَلّا is often used in casual conversation, 'كلاهما' might appear more in formal settings or literature.

Culture

The word كَلّا is deeply rooted in Arabic culture, reflecting the importance of hospitality and generosity. Historically, offering both options to guests has been a sign of respect and kindness, illustrating the cultural significance of sharing and abundance in Arabic-speaking communities.

FAQ

Q.What does كَلّا mean in English?

كَلّا translates to 'both' in English. It's used to refer to two items or people together, emphasizing inclusion.

Q.How do you use كَلّا in a sentence?

You can use كَلّا in sentences like 'أحب كَلّا القهوة والشاي' meaning 'I love both coffee and tea.' It’s a straightforward way to express a preference for two things.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with كَلّا?

A common mistake is using كَلّا when referring to more than two items. Remember, كَلّا specifically refers to two, so for three or more, you would use 'جميعها' (all of them) instead.

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