chouha شوهة
Tunisian Derja · noun
“chouha” (شوهة) is a noun in Tunisian Derja meaning scandal, public scene.
Meanings
- scandal, public scene
- shame, public disgrace
- something very ugly
Usage
Chouha is very common and informal. The word refers to a scene, a noisy public outburst, or conduct that brings shame. The most frequent expression is "3mel chouha": to make a scandal, to cause a scene. You also hear "chouha!" on its own, as an exclamation meaning "how shameful!". The word can also describe something downright ugly or botched. It comes from the same root as "chawweh" (to disfigure, to make ugly). The tone is often disapproving, sometimes mocking. It is not a swear word, but it is still unsuitable in a formal context.
Example
عمل شوهة قدام الناس الكل.
3mel chouha 9oddem ennes el kol.
“He made a scene in front of everybody.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “chouha” but also “shouha” and “chouhaa”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.