I'm learning العربية

مَجهول — meaning in English: Anonymous

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

Guess the translation for unknown
قِياساً
يَيْنَ/ما بَيْنَ
فِطْر
مَجهول
ههه
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
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word مَجهول in contexts involving anonymity, such as discussing anonymous sources in news articles or referring to unknown individuals in a story or anecdote. For example, someone might say, 'المعلومات جاءت من مصدر مَجهول' (The information came from an anonymous source) when discussing a sensitive topic.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is خفي (khafi), which means hidden. While مَجهول specifically refers to something or someone that is not known or identified, خفي carries a connotation of secrecy or concealment. You would choose مَجهول when emphasizing the lack of identification rather than the intention to hide.
Culture
The Arabic word مَجهول comes from the root ج هـ ل, which implies a lack of knowledge or familiarity. In various cultures, especially in the Arab world, anonymity can carry different connotations, from protecting one's identity in sensitive situations to the appreciation of mystery in storytelling. This word has evolved to embrace both these aspects, making it particularly versatile in modern discourse.
FAQ
Q.What does مَجهول mean in English?
مَجهول translates to 'anonymous' in English, referring to something or someone whose identity is unknown.
Q.How do you pronounce مَجهول?
مَجهول is pronounced as 'majhool', where the 'j' has a soft sound similar to the English 'j' in 'jam'.
Q.Can مَجهول be used in formal writing?
Yes, مَجهول can be used in formal contexts, such as academic papers or journalism, particularly when discussing anonymous sources or unidentified subjects.
Learn arabic with Maspeak →
Arabic 5000