12 Things Lebanese Dads Say And What They Really Mean

Lebanese fathers are unique to fathers from elsewhere in the world. Their dad jokes are relentless, their lectures are intense, and their support is everlasting. Here are the things your Lebanese dad has probably said before, and what he actually meant.

1. Anything introduced with “when I was your age…”

By this he means that ‘the thing’ in question has happened to him at any point in his life, but it always sounds more dramatic and condescending when he frames it in reference to your exact age.

2. “I was the top student in my class, you can ask anyone!”

If this is true, then literally every single Lebanese father was a student equipped with the brains of Einstein. This literally means he was once a student – nothing more.

3. “Rou7o nbosto, 3melo shu mabadkon”

You should probably stay home.

4. “I’m not telling you what to do, I’m just giving you my advice.”

HE IS TELLING YOU WHAT TO DO.

5. When he brings junk food home “heyda ana jibto kermelkon”

This means he bought this product for himself, but has an awkward guilt about buying it, so he places the reasoning for its purchase on his love for you.

6. Any birthday gift given to any of his daughters

…was in fact bought by your mother but gifted to you by your father.

7. “Bared barra, elbisse shi bi daffike”

This means that he doesn’t like what you’re wearing and he’d like you to cover up.

8. “Mnidrissa” about everything

What he says when he’s too lazy to address your question, or when he just doesn’t give a shit about what you said.

9. “3a2belik”

He says this at weddings because it’s what people say, but he secretly dreads the day that you leave the house for good.

10. “La ma kinit bi 3omirkon kinnna nishar lal sobo7”

By this he means he’d go to the neighborhood bar, have half a beer, and be in bed by 10:15 PM.

11. “Kenna nrou7 men il beit 3al madrasse 3al beit”

He’s just guilt-tripping you for having friends and happiness.

12. “Kel el banet keno yel7a2oune, ana bas kint 7ab immkon”

This means that he was very socially awkward, he probably had acne and was a nerd, and your mom was the only person who would look his way… or that it was an arranged marriage.