What Does "Wallahi" Mean in Arabic? Cultural & Slang Definitions

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Plus, learn how to pronounce this Arabic term correctly

Co-authored by Anas Abdallah and Devin McSween

Last Updated: November 7, 2025 Fact Checked

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• Meaning
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• Usage
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• Pronunciation
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• Is saying wallahi a sin?
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• Can non-Muslims say wallahi?
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• Video

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So, you’ve heard someone say the word “wallahi.” What does that mean? In Arabic, Islamic, and African cultures, wallahi or wallah is a way to make an oath or promise to God. It’s also become a common slang phrase in Western cultures, like in the UK and Canada. Curious to learn more? Keep reading to find out how wallahi is used in everyday conversation.

What is the meaning of “wallahi”?

Wallahi is an Arabic term that means “I swear to God.” It’s primarily used by Arabic speakers and Muslims, though it’s used as slang in other countries, like the UK. People commonly use it to say they’re not lying or to emphasize a statement. Traditionally, Muslims use it to make a serious oath or promise to God.

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Section 1 of 5:

What does wallahi mean?

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1. 
   Wallahi is an Arabic term meaning “I swear to God” or “by God.”Wallahi is primarily used in Arabic-speaking countries and cultures to make an oath to God or to emphasize sincerity. It’s also considered an Islamic term, though Arab Christians and Jews also say it. However, it's important to note that it's not always a direct religious expression, and many non-religious people use it. In many cases, it's simply a common phrase used in everyday conversations that’s used to confirm truthfulness or to express frustration or disbelief at a recent statement or event.

   • Wallahi is a version of the Arabic term wallah, which has the same meaning. It's a popular expression in many Arabic-speaking countries, including Egypt, Syria, Somalia, Lebanon, and Jordan.
   • In Arabic, wallahi is written as وَٱللّٰهِ.
   • “Wa” means “swear by,” and “Allah” means God.
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Section 2 of 5:

How is wallahi used?

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1. 1
   Traditionally, wallahi is a serious way to make a promise to God. Many Muslims consider wallahi as a serious and binding oath to God. Whether they’re promising to do something (or stop doing something) or swearing that they’re telling the truth, by saying wallahi, they’re making the claim on God’s name. This gives the term weight and religious significance, so many believe it shouldn’t be said lightly or flippantly.

   • Examples:
     • “Wallahi, I will stop smoking.”
     • “Wallahi, I will get to work on time.”
     • “Wallahi, I prayed before bed.”
   • Because wallahi is an oath to God, many Muslims consider it a sin if the promise is broken or if it’s said in vain (i.e., they’re actually lying). We’ll discuss whether saying "wallahi" is a sin in more in depth later on in this article.
2. 2
   As slang, wallahi is a way to say you’re not lying or emphasize a statement. Many Arabic speakers and Muslims use wallahi in a slangy, lighthearted way to assert that they’re being truthful, to emphasize a statement, or to express anger, frustration, or disbelief. The term is so common that it’s become popular slang in other cultures. For instance, it’s considered Roadman slang in the UK and Toronto slang in Canada.

   • Examples:
     • “Wallahi, I’m not lying! He really said that!”
     • “Wallahi, the bug in my room was as big as my hand.”
     • “Wallahi, if you don’t stop bothering me, I’m going to scream.”
   • Note: Some Muslims believe the slang use of wallahi is too lighthearted and causes it to lose its religious significance and weight. So, many do not recommend using it for small, trivial things like this.
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Section 3 of 5:

How do you pronounce wallahi?

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1. 
   Wallahi is phonetically pronounced as /wɑˈɫːɑːhi/, either “wah-lah-hee” or “wah-luh-hee.”

Section 4 of 5:

Is saying wallahi a sin?

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1. 
   If said in vain, wallahi may be considered a sin. Swearing by Allah is a common practice in Arabic culture, but it should be done thoughtfully and respectfully. According to Islamic teachings, it's best to swear only by God and nothing else, such as one's life or honor. Avoid using this oath lightly or in anger. When used sincerely, it can be a powerful tool for expressing commitment and truthfulness. Take a look at these examples:

   • If you were to say, "Wallahi," to assure a friend that you didn't take their notebook, and you truly didn't, it would be an acceptable way to emphasize your honesty.
   • Avoid saying “Wallahi” if you’re lying. For instance, saying "Wallahi, this is the most delicious meal I've ever had!" when you don't genuinely believe it is a sin.
   • If you casually say, for example, "Wallahi I will do that tomorrow" and don't follow through, there is no blame upon you. However, it's best to use such sacred words with care and only when truly necessary.
   • When you clearly state something and swear by Allah, and in your heart you mean this oath to be solemn, then breaking it will be sinful.
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Section 5 of 5:

Can non-Muslims say wallahi?

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1. It’s generally OK for non-Muslims to use, as long as it’s not said mockingly. Because wallahi is a term that’s widely used in Arabic-speaking countries (regardless of someone’s religious affiliation) and has become “mainstream” in other cultures, Muslims generally agree that it’s fine for non-Muslims to use it. It’s just important that non-Muslims understand the meaning and use of the term, and say it sincerely (i.e., they don’t say it to mock Islam or ridicule others).

   • Of course, everybody is different, so some people may have different opinions on this. Some Muslims might view non-Muslims saying wallahi as a heartwarming and respectful gesture, while others may find it strange.

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