Language/Armenian/Vocabulary/Idiomatic-Phrases

Armenian → Vocabulary → 0 to A1 Course → Armenian Idioms and Slangs → Idiomatic Phrases

Introduction

Welcome to the lesson on idiomatic phrases in Armenian! As you progress in your journey to learn the Armenian language, it's important to not only focus on vocabulary and grammar, but also on the expressions and phrases that native speakers commonly use in their everyday conversations. Idioms and slangs play an essential role in any language, as they add color, depth, and cultural context to the language. In this lesson, we will explore a variety of idiomatic phrases used by Armenians in their daily lives. We will provide you with the meaning, usage, and examples of these phrases, as well as delve into the cultural and historical background behind them. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand and use these idiomatic phrases with confidence, adding an extra layer of fluency to your Armenian language skills.

Idiomatic Phrases

Armenian idiomatic phrases are an integral part of the language and reflect the cultural nuances and beliefs of the Armenian people. They often convey a deeper meaning that cannot be directly translated into English. Let's explore some of the most commonly used idiomatic phrases in Armenian and their English equivalents:

Phrase 1

Armenian: Ջանաստի (janaasti) Pronunciation: /dʒɑnɑsti/ English Translation: My dear

This phrase is used as a term of endearment or affection towards someone. It is similar to saying "my dear" in English, but carries a stronger emotional connotation. Armenians often use this phrase when expressing love or care for their family members, friends, or significant others. For example, if you want to tell your partner "My dear, I love you," you can say "Ջանաստի, սիրում եմ քեզ" (janaasti, sirum em kez).

Phrase 2

Armenian: Արդիական վայրը (ardian vayry) Pronunciation: /ɑɾdiɑn vɑjɾ/ English Translation: Real place

This phrase is used to describe a genuine or authentic place. It is often used when referring to a location that holds special significance or is known for its authenticity. For example, if someone asks you about traditional Armenian cuisine, you can say "Արդիական վայրը Հայաստանում սեղանափառ է" (Ardian vayry Hayastanum seghanapar e), which means "The real place for Armenian cuisine is in Armenia."

Phrase 3

Armenian: Պիտի կանչել ստորին (piti kanchel storin) Pronunciation: /piti kɑnt͡ʃʰɛl stɔɾin/ English Translation: I should call you in the evening

This phrase is used as a polite way of saying goodbye or ending a conversation. It implies that the speaker will contact the other person later in the day. It is often used in situations where the conversation is coming to a close, but the speaker wants to maintain a connection with the other person. For example, if you are ending a phone call with a friend, you can say "Պիտի կանչել ստորին" (Piti kanchel storin) before hanging up.

Phrase 4

Armenian: Դամանական դեպք (damanakan depk) Pronunciation: /dɑmɑnɑkɑn dɛpk/ English Translation: In the worst case scenario

This phrase is used to refer to the worst possible outcome or situation. It is often used when discussing potential risks or uncertainties. For example, if someone asks you about your travel plans, and you want to mention a worst-case scenario, you can say "Դամանական դեպք կարող է լինել ճանապարհի խարխափում" (Damanakan depk karoġ e linel chanaparhi kharxapum), which translates to "In the worst-case scenario, there may be a road closure."

Phrase 5

Armenian: Խնայել տարի (khnayel tari) Pronunciation: /χnɑjɛl tɑɾi/ English Translation: To grow old

This phrase is used to express the concept of aging or growing old. It is often used in a positive context, suggesting that growing old is a natural and desirable part of life. For example, if someone compliments you on your appearance, you can respond with "Խնայել տարի" (Khnayel tari), meaning "To grow old," to acknowledge the compliment graciously.

Phrase 6

Armenian: Այսօր ամեն օր է (aysoř amen or e) Pronunciation: /ɑjsɔɾ ɑmɛn ɔɾ ɛ/ English Translation: Every day is today

This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of living in the present moment. It encourages individuals to embrace each day and make the most of it. It reflects the Armenian cultural value of cherishing the present and finding joy in the simple things in life. For example, if someone asks you about your plans for the future, you can respond with "Այսօր ամեն օր է" (Aysoř amen or e), meaning "Every day is today," to convey your focus on living in the present.

Cultural Insights

Armenian idiomatic phrases not only provide linguistic richness to the language but also offer insights into the Armenian culture and history. Here are some cultural facts and anecdotes related to idiomatic phrases:

Regional Variations

Armenian idiomatic phrases may vary in usage and understanding across different regions of Armenia. Regional dialects and cultural nuances can influence the choice of idiomatic phrases and their interpretations. For example, in the Shirak region of Armenia, the phrase "Ջանաստի" (janaasti) is often pronounced as "Ջանաստուն" (janaastun). These variations reflect the diversity and richness of the Armenian language.

Historical Significance

Many Armenian idiomatic phrases have historical origins and are rooted in the country's rich heritage. For example, the phrase "Արդիական վայրը" (ardian vayry) reflects the deep connection Armenians have with their ancestral lands and traditions. It is a testament to the resilience and cultural pride of the Armenian people, who have preserved their unique identity throughout centuries of history.

Cultural Customs

Armenian idiomatic phrases often reflect cultural customs and values. For example, the phrase "Դամանական դեպք" (damanakan depk) highlights the Armenian mindset of being prepared for the worst-case scenario. This reflects the cultural value of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Understanding these cultural customs adds depth and context to the idiomatic phrases and enhances your overall understanding of the Armenian language and culture.

Exercises

Now that you have learned about various idiomatic phrases in Armenian, it's time to practice using them in context. Here are some exercises to help you reinforce your understanding and usage of these phrases:

Exercise 1: Translate the following English sentences into Armenian, using the appropriate idiomatic phrases:

1. My dear, I miss you. 2. This place is the real deal. 3. I should call you in the evening. 4. In the worst-case scenario, we can find a solution. 5. To grow old gracefully is a blessing. 6. Every day is today, so let's make the most of it.

Exercise 2: Create your own sentences using the idiomatic phrases we have learned in this lesson. Be creative and try to incorporate them into real-life situations.

Solutions

Exercise 1:

1. Ջանաստի, ես դու կուզում եմ։ (Janaasti, es du kuzum em.) 2. Արդիական վայրը այս է։ (Ardian vayry ayso e.) 3. Պիտի կանչեմ քեզ երեկոյան։ (Piti kanchem kez erekoġyan.) 4. Դամանական դեպքում կարող ենք գտնել լուծում։ (Damanakan depkum karog enq gtnel lucum.) 5. Խնայել տարին հզորացնելը բարեւորություն է։ (Khnayel tarin hzoratsnel barġovutyun e.) 6. Այսօր ամեն օր է, այսպես թող օգտագործենք։ (Aysoř amen or e, ayspes toġ ogtakorcenk.)

Exercise 2:

- Ջանաստի, խաղաղությունն է իմ հումորին: (Janaasti, khagaghutyunn e im humorin.) - My dear, happiness is my treasure. - Արդիական վայրը լինելու հարմար է։ (Ardian vayry lineluh haramar e.) - Being in the real place is valuable. - Պիտի կանչեմ քեզ երեկոյան, որպեսզի տեսնեմ ես։ (Piti kanchem kez erekoġyan, orpeszi tesnem es.) - I should call you in the evening so that I can see you. - Դամանական դեպքում պետք է գտնենք լուծում։ (Damanakan depkum petk e gtnel lucum.) - In the worst-case scenario, we need to find a solution. - Խնայել տարին հավատալուն է։ (Khnayel tarin havatalun e.) - To grow old gracefully is admirable. - Այսօր ամեն օր է, համակարգը թող էլ աշխատի։ (Aysoř amen or e, hamakarg eġel ashkhati.) - Every day is today, let the system work.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing the lesson on idiomatic phrases in Armenian! You have learned a variety of phrases that Armenians commonly use in their daily conversations. By incorporating these idiomatic phrases into your language skills, you will be able to communicate more effectively and authentically with native speakers. Remember to practice using these phrases in context to reinforce your understanding and fluency. Keep exploring the rich cultural and historical background behind these idiomatic phrases, as it will enhance your appreciation for the Armenian language and culture. Happy learning!

Table of Contents - Armenian Course - 0 to A1

• Course Presentation

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Greetings and Introductions

• Basic Greetings
• Introducing Yourself

  ---

Alphabet and Pronunciation

• Armenian Alphabet
• Pronunciation Rules

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Numbers and Time

• Numbers 1-20
• Telling Time

  ---

Basic Sentence Structure

• Subject-Verb-Object
• Yes/No Questions

  ---

Family and Relationships

• Family Members
• Describing Relationships

  ---

Nouns and Pronouns

• Noun Gender and Plurals
• Personal Pronouns

  ---

Food and Dining

• Common Foods
• Eating Out

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Verbs and Tenses

• Present Tense
• Past Tense

  ---

Travel and Transportation

• Modes of Transportation
• Asking for Directions

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Adjectives and Adverbs

• Descriptive Adjectives
• Adverbs of Time, Manner, and Place

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Armenian Traditions and Customs

• Holidays and Celebrations
• Traditional Music and Dance

Sources

• 8 Armenian Expressions and Sayings That Will Make You Laugh
• 8+ Funny Armenian Phrases To Keep Close - Ling App
• The Most Popular Armenian Dictionaries | ASPIRANTUM

Other Lessons

• Fruits
• Colors gowyner գույներ
• Count from 1 to 10
• Legal Terms
• Greetings Ողջույն
• How to Say Hello and Greetings
• Nature
• Mathematics Vocabulary
• Armenian Idioms
• Food and Drinks