50+ Useful Darija Expressions to Speak Like a Moroccan
Introduction
If you’re learning Moroccan Arabic (Darija), one of the best ways to sound natural fast is by learning real, useful expressions — the kind Moroccans use every single day in cafés, taxis, and family gatherings.
In this post, you’ll discover 50+ everyday Darija expressions that will help you connect with locals, sound authentic, and understand Morocco beyond the textbook.
Let’s dive in!
1. Everyday Darija Expressions
These are the phrases you’ll hear all the time — perfect for any situation.
| English | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| Good morning | Sbah lkhir | |
| Good evening | Msa lkhir | |
| How are you? | kidayer? (m) / kidayera? (f) | |
| I’m fine, thank God | Bikhir, lhamdulilah | |
| Thank you | Shukran | |
| You’re welcome | Mrahba | |
| Please | 3afak | |
| Excuse me | Smah liya |
Tip: Saying “3afak” (please) is one of the most polite ways to ask for something in Morocco.
2. Common Expressions for Daily Life
| English | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| No problem | Mashi mushkil | |
| Don’t worry | Matkhafash | |
| Really? | Bsah? | |
| That’s true | Bsah | |
| Be careful | Rad balek | |
| Take your time | Khod ra7tak | |
| It’s okay | Mashi mushkil |
Cultural note: “Mashi mushkil” (no problem) is a very Moroccan way of saying “it’s fine”. You’ll hear it everywhere.
3. At the Café or Home
| English | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| I want tea | Bghit atay | |
| With mint | B na3na3 | |
| I want coffee | Bghit 9ehwa | |
| Without sugar | Bla skar | |
| Very good! | Zwin bezaf! | |
| Delicious | Bnin | |
| I’m full | Shba3t |
Fun fact: In Morocco, tea time is a social moment — not just a drink. Saying “bnin!” (delicious) is always appreciated!
4. Getting Around Town
| English | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| Where is…? | Fin…? | |
| I want to go to… | Bghit namshi l… | |
| Stop here | W9ef hna | |
| How much is it? | Bsh7al? | |
| That’s too expensive | Ghali bezaf | |
| Make it cheaper | N9es shwiya |
Tip: Smile when you say nqes shwiya — it turns bargaining into fun instead of conflict!
5. Friendly & Social Expressions
| English | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome! | Marhaba! | |
| Nice to meet you | Matsharfin | |
| How’s your family? | kidayrin malin dar? | |
| Long time no see | Mashafteksh mn zman | |
| Congratulations | Mabrouk | |
| Good luck | Btawfi9 | |
| Take care | Rad balek |
6. Fun Moroccan Slang Expressions
| English Meaning | Darija | |
|---|---|---|
| Chill / Relax | Dir 3a9lek | |
| Wow / Amazing | Zwin! | |
| No way! | Mayamkansh! | |
| Be patient | Sber shwiya | |
| Let’s go! | Yallah! | |
| It’s not worth it | Mataswash |
Cultural tip: Moroccans love humor and emotion in conversation — using these expressions makes you sound local instantly.
7. Why Learn Useful Darija Expressions?
Learning grammar is good — but speaking naturally comes from using real expressions that people actually say.
These phrases help you:
✅ Sound confident and friendly
✅ Understand conversations around you
✅ Connect deeply with Moroccans
And the best part? Once you start using these phrases, people will immediately encourage you with:
“Tbarak Allah 3lik! Kathdar b Darija zwina!”
(“Wow, you speak beautiful Darija!”)
Learn Darija Step-by-Step
If you loved these expressions, you’ll love the Daily Darija Online Courses, where you can learn:
-
Real-life vocabulary and pronunciation
-
Grammar made simple
-
Cultural context for every expression
Start your journey today: www.dailydarija.com
