3la9al علاقل
Tunisian Derja · expression
“3la9al” (علاقل) is an expression in Tunisian Derja meaning at least.
Meanings
- at least
- at any rate, anyway
Usage
3la9al is the oral, contracted form of "3la el a9all". It is used to set an acceptable minimum ("3la9al ghsel yeddik", at least wash your hands) or to play down a disappointing situation by keeping a positive point ("3la9al rb7na 7aja", at least we won something). It usually comes at the start of the clause. In writing, spellings vary a lot, joined or separate. The register is neutral and everyday. It is found in conversation as well as on social media.
Example
ما جاش، آما علاقل كلّمني بالتليفون.
ma jech, ama 3la9al kallemni bel telifoun.
“He didn't come, but at least he called me on the phone.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “3la9al” but also “3al9al”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.
Digits stand in for Arabic letters that have no Latin equivalent: 3 is ayn (ع), a voiced sound from deep in the throat with no English equivalent; 9 is qaf (ق), a k pronounced at the back of the throat.