interjection

mashallah

mash-AH-luh

Mashallah (interjection) means an Arabic expression meaning "what God has willed," said to show appreciation or joy at something good, and to acknowledge the blessing rather than boast of it. Example: “Mashallah, look how she has grown.”

interjection

An Arabic expression meaning "what God has willed," said to show appreciation or joy at something good, and to acknowledge the blessing rather than boast of it.

"Mashallah, look how she has grown."

How to use mashallah

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn Arabic expression of appreciation — "God has willed it."

When to use it

Used across Muslim communities and widely beyond them.

Easily confused with

inshallah → alhamdulillah

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____, look how she has grown.

Etymology

From Arabic "mā shāʾa llāh," what God has willed.

Origin: Arabic

Rhymes for mashallah

Allah inshallah

See all rhymes for mashallah →

Frequently asked questions

What does mashallah mean?

"What God has willed." It is said on seeing something good — a healthy child, an achievement, good news — to express delight and give credit to God rather than claim it.

What is the difference between mashallah and inshallah?

Mashallah responds to something that has already happened, with appreciation. Inshallah means "if God wills" and looks forward to something hoped for.

What is the meaning of mashallah?

"mashallah" (interjection) means an Arabic expression meaning "what God has willed," said to show appreciation or joy at something good, and to acknowledge the blessing rather than boast of it.

How do you use mashallah in a sentence?

Example: "Mashallah, look how she has grown."