I'm learning
العربية
عِلاوة — meaning in English: Bonus
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
increase
مُرَكَّب ات
فَريق، فرقاء
تَوْجيهيّ
عِلاوة
نَقيّ
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Arabic for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
formal
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word عِلاوة in professional settings when discussing salary negotiations or employee benefits. For instance, an employee might ask their manager if they can expect an عِلاوة after a successful project completion. It's also common in formal discussions about financial incentives or bonuses during corporate meetings.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is مكافأة (makafaa), which generally means 'reward' or 'gratuity,' but عِلاوة specifically refers to a financial bonus related to salary or performance. You would choose عِلاوة when discussing professional or financial contexts, while مكافأة might be more appropriate for rewards that could be non-monetary.
Culture
The word عِلاوة is derived from the root ع ل و, which embodies the idea of elevation or increase, fitting perfectly with its meaning of 'bonus.' In many Arabic-speaking cultures, receiving an عِلاوة is not just a financial incentive; it often symbolizes recognition of hard work and commitment. Historically, during certain festivals, it was customary for employers to provide عِلاوات as a way to share profits and show appreciation to workers.
FAQ
