Practical Arabic Phrases for the Mat
Essential Moroccan Arabic (Darija) phrases to use at academies and in daily life during your BJJ trip.
Communicate on the Mats
While French and English are common in Moroccan academies, knowing some Darija (Moroccan Arabic) shows respect and helps you connect.
Greetings
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello/Peace | Salam | sa-LAM |
| Hello (response) | Wa alaikum salam | wa a-LAY-kum sa-LAM |
| How are you? | Labas? | la-BAS |
| Good, thanks | Labas, hamdullah | la-BAS, ham-du-LAH |
| Nice to meet you | Mtsharfin | mt-shar-FEEN |
At the Academy
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Can I train today? | Wash nqder nttrayna lyoum? | wash n-KDER n-TRAY-na lyOOM |
| How much? | Bshhal? | b-SHHAL |
| Thank you | Shukran | shook-RAN |
| Let's roll | Yallah | YAL-la |
| Good job | Mezyan | mez-YAN |
| Again | Marra khra | MAR-ra KHRA |
During Training
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Slow down | Shwiya shwiya | SHWEE-ya SHWEE-ya |
| Harder | Qwa | KWA |
| Wait | Tsenna | tsen-NA |
| I'm tired | 3yit | ay-YEET |
| Water | Lma | l-MA |
| I tap | Dreb | DREB |
Daily Life
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Iyeh | ee-YEH |
| No | La | LA |
| Please | 3afak | ah-FAK |
| Sorry | Smahli | smah-LEE |
| How much is this? | Bshhal hada? | b-SHHAL HA-da |
| Where is...? | Fin kayn...? | FEEN kayn |
Tips
- Most academy communication is in French
- Moroccans appreciate any attempt at Darija
- "Hamdullah" (thanks to God) is used constantly
- When in doubt, smile and use gestures
Note: Information in this guide is provided for reference only. Conditions may change - verify details with academies and local sources before your trip.
FAQ
Do I need Darija to train BJJ in Morocco?
No — French and English cover most tourist-facing academies and camps. Learning a few mat phrases in Darija still helps you connect with locals and shows respect.
Which phrase should I use to ask someone to roll lightly?
Try “b’chwiya b’chwiya” (slowly / gently) paired with hand signals. Coaches often code-switch into French for technique anyway.
How do I say thank you after class in Moroccan Arabic?
“Shukran” works everywhere; adding “bzzaf” (a lot) — “shukran bzzaf” — is warmly received after a hard session.
When was this phrase guide last updated?
May 2026. Pronunciation varies by region — ask a local training partner to correct your accent on the first day.