ma fhemtekch ما فهمتكش
Algerian Darja · expression
“ma fhemtekch” (ما فهمتكش) is an expression in Algerian Darja meaning I didn't understand you.
Meanings
- I didn't understand you
- I don't see what you mean
Usage
Ma fhemtekch is formed from the verb fhem ("to understand") in the perfect tense, first person. The negation wraps around the verb: ma… ch, like the French "ne… pas". The suffix -ek means "you". It is used when you haven't caught what the other person is saying, or to show that you don't understand their attitude. Depending on tone, the expression can be neutral or a little curt. To address several people, say ma fhemtkomch. Without an object, ma fhemtch simply means "I didn't understand".
Example
عاود من فضلك، ما فهمتكش
3awed min fadlek, ma fhemtekch
“Say it again please, I didn't understand you.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “ma fhemtekch” but also “ma fhmtakch” and “ma fhamtakch”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.