hlem حلم

Algerian Darja · verb

“hlem” (حلم) is a verb in Algerian Darja meaning to dream (while asleep).

Meanings

1. to dream (while asleep)
2. to dream of, hope for

Usage

The verb hlem, imperfect yehlem, means "to dream". The construction is hlem b-, "to dream of": hlemt bik, "I dreamed of you". It is used first of dreaming during sleep. In this sense, the common noun is often mnam, "dream", more than hulm. The sense "to aspire to" also exists, mainly under the influence of Standard Arabic and the media. In conversation, people would rather say nitmenna or bghit. Do not confuse it with hlem, "to be patient, forbearing", which is more literary.

Example

How to write it in Latin letters

In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “hlem” but also “7lem”, “hlemt” and “7lemt”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.

Digits stand in for Arabic letters that have no Latin equivalent: 7 is ha (ح), a breathy h from the throat.

Type “hlem” on the Arabic keyboard

In Moroccan Darija

Spelt the same way in Arabic, the word also exists in Moroccan Darija, where it means “to dream (while sleeping)”; “dream, aspiration (noun 7olm)”: 7lem in Moroccan.

In Tunisian Derja

Spelt the same way in Arabic, the word also exists in Tunisian Derja, where it means “dream during sleep”; “aspiration, ambition”: 7lem in Tunisian.