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واحِد — meaning in English: One

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

Guess the translation for one
يا لِلأسْف
مارَسَ
سَيْل
واحِد
wāḥid
مُفاجَأة، مُفاجَآت
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neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'واحِد' (wāḥid) when counting objects, describing singular items, or indicating one of something in everyday conversation. For example, a student might say 'أحتاج واحِد كتاب' (I need one book) at a bookshop.
Synonyms & nuances
'واحِد' (wāḥid) specifically denotes the number one, while its synonym 'أول' (awwal) means 'first.' You would use 'واحِد' when simply counting, but 'أول' is appropriate when indicating the first in a sequence, like 'the first day of school'.
Culture
The Arabic word 'واحِد' (wāḥid) has its roots in the Semitic language family, which includes ancient languages like Hebrew and Aramaic. In many cultures, the concept of 'one' is often associated with unity and individualism, making this word significant in expressing singular identity and belonging.
FAQ
Q.What is the pronunciation of the Arabic word for one?
'واحِد' is pronounced as 'wāḥid'. The 'ḥ' sound is a voiceless pharyngeal fricative, which may be tricky for English speakers but is a key sound in Arabic.
Q.How do I use 'واحِد' in a sentence?
'واحِد' can be used in various contexts, such as 'عندي واحِد قميص' (I have one shirt) or 'أحتاج إلى واحِد فقط' (I only need one).
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'واحِد'?
A common mistake is confusing 'واحِد' with 'واحد' (which is a less standard transliteration). Always ensure you use the correct spelling based on context to avoid confusion.
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