I'm learning العربية

غَيْب — meaning in English: Gob

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for (noun) (what is) invisible
مُعَلِّق
إغلاق
غَيْب
تَوَقَّعَ
عَيْش
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Arabic for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
literary common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word غَيْب in discussions about topics that are unseen or hidden. For example, it might come up in conversations about faith, spirituality, or the metaphysical; such as when discussing the unseen aspects of life or in literature that explores themes beyond the physical world.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'مستور' (mastoor), which also means hidden or concealed. However, غَيْب carries a more spiritual connotation, often related to divine matters, while مستور can refer to anything that is merely hidden from view.
Culture
The Arabic word غَيْب has deep roots in Islamic theology, where it refers to the unseen world, including matters of faith that believers must accept without physical evidence. Interestingly, it is often contrasted with the concept of 'شهادة' (shahada), which pertains to what is witnessed or observable. This duality reflects the rich philosophical discussions within Arab culture about belief and perception.
FAQ
Q.What does غَيْب mean in English?
غَيْب translates to 'Gob' or 'the unseen.' It refers to things that are not visible or known, often in a spiritual or philosophical context.
Q.How is غَيْب used in Arabic sentences?
For example, one might say, 'إن الإيمان بالغيب فرض على جميع المؤمنين' (Belief in the unseen is obligatory for all believers), demonstrating its use in religious discourse.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using غَيْب?
One common mistake is confusing غَيْب with غيبيات (ghaybiyyat), which refers specifically to matters of the unseen realm in a more religious context. It's important to understand that غَيْب can be used more broadly.
Learn arabic with Maspeak →
Arabic 5000