Arabic · Greetings & Phrases

عفوا

'Afwan

You're welcome

Beginnerinterjection

Definition

The standard reply to thank you, also used for excuse me.

Example

شكرا! — عفوا.

Thanks! — You're welcome.

Etymology

'عفوا' (Afwan) means 'you are welcome' and is derived from the root 'عف' (ʿf), which relates to 'forgiveness' or 'pardon'.

How & Where It’s Used

Predominantly used in informal contexts in response to 'shukran'. It is common in conversation across various Arabic-speaking countries.

Watch “You're welcome” pronunciation on YouTube
politeness

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