The Particle Anna: Introducing

Anna usually sits in the middle of a sentence. It follows a verb like "to think" or "to know." When Anna enters the room, the noun right after it changes. Usually, a subject in Arabic ends with a "u" sound (Dhamma). But Anna is picky. She demands that the noun ends with an "a" sound (Fatha). This is called the *Mansub* case. It is like a grammar traffic light. When you see Anna, you must change the signal to "a." If you use a pronoun instead of a noun, it attaches directly to Anna. So, "that he" becomes annahu. It is a very sticky particle! It glues the two halves of your thought together.

1. 1Creating a sentence with Anna follows a simple 3-step recipe:
2. 2Start with a main verb. Common ones are a'taqidu (I think) or a'lamu (I know).
3. 3Add the particle ann-a (أنَّ).
4. 4Add the subject. If it is a noun, give it a Fatha (the "a" sound). If it is a pronoun, attach the suffix.
5. 5For example: A'taqidu (I think) + anna (that) + al-walada (the boy) + mubtahij (happy).
6. 6Result: A'taqidu anna al-walada mubtahij. (I think that the boy is happy.)
7. 7Notice how al-waladu became al-walada. It is a small change, but it makes a huge difference to native ears.

Use Anna whenever you are reporting a fact or an opinion.

• Sharing news: "I heard that the restaurant is closed."
• Expressing thoughts: "I feel that this is a good idea."
• Confirming facts: "It is certain that the train is late."
• Job Interviews: "I believe that I am the best candidate."
• Ordering Food: "I think that this dish is spicy."

It is the bridge between your main action and the details. Without it, your sentences would feel like broken pieces of a puzzle. It adds a layer of sophistication to your speech. Even at the A1 level, using Anna correctly shows you really understand how Arabic flows.

There is one big rule you must remember. Never use Anna after the verb "to say" (qaala). If you say "He said that...", you must use Inna (إنَّ) with an "i" sound. Using Anna after qaala is a classic mistake. Think of it like a secret club. Inna has the exclusive rights to the verb "to say." Also, do not use Anna directly before a verb. It must be followed by a noun or a pronoun suffix. If you want to say "that he goes," you need a different word called An (أنْ). Anna is strictly for nouns and pronouns. It likes to keep things organized.

Yes, even native speakers mess this up sometimes when they are in a rush! The most common slip-up is forgetting the Fatha. Many people keep the "u" sound on the noun. It's like wearing your shirt inside out. People will understand you, but it looks a bit messy. Another mistake is confusing Anna with An. Remember: Anna (with a Shadda) loves nouns. An (with a Sukun) loves verbs. Finally, don't forget the pronoun suffixes. You can't say anna huwa. You must say annahu. It’s like a puzzle piece that only fits when clicked together.

Let's compare the "Three Sisters":

• Inna: Used at the very start of a sentence or after "to say." It adds emphasis.
• Anna: Used in the middle of a sentence after verbs of thinking/knowing. It acts as a connector.
• An: Used before a verb to mean "to" (e.g., "I want to eat").

Think of Inna as the leader, Anna as the bridge, and An as the action-helper. They look similar, but they have very different jobs. If you mix them up, it's like using a fork to eat soup. It might work eventually, but it's not the right tool for the job!