I'm learning العربية

قَضاء الحاجة — meaning in English: Defecating

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

Guess the translation for going to the bathroom
ما + ل + pronoun
تَنَفُّس
مُتَفائِل
قَضاء الحاجة
مُوَظَّف
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 قَضاء الحاجة in everyday conversations, particularly when discussing bodily needs or hygiene in a more polite manner. For example, in a family setting, someone might say they need to step away for a moment, using this phrase to maintain decorum.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 'تغوط' (taghawwat), which is a more direct term for defecating. However, قَضاء الحاجة is often favored in polite conversation, making it more suitable for general discussions, while تغوط might be reserved for more clinical or informal contexts.
Culture
The phrase قَضاء الحاجة literally translates to 'fulfilling a need,' reflecting a cultural emphasis on modesty and propriety when discussing personal matters. It is interesting to note that in many Arab cultures, euphemisms for bodily functions are often preferred to direct terms, highlighting the value placed on privacy.
FAQ
Q.What does قَضاء الحاجة mean in English?
قَضاء الحاجة translates to 'defecating' in English, but it can also mean 'fulfilling a need,' emphasizing a more polite way to refer to bodily functions.
Q.How do you pronounce قَضاء الحاجة?
It is pronounced as 'qadha al-hajah', where 'qadha' has a hard 'q' sound and 'hajah' is pronounced with a soft 'h', making it smooth and flowing.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using قَضاء الحاجة?
One common mistake is using it in overly casual contexts; it’s best suited for neutral or polite conversations. Additionally, some learners might confuse it with more direct terms and risk sounding rude.
Learn arabic with Maspeak →
Arabic 5000