BITS ‘N’ PIECES
Narrated Abu Huraira (R.A):
Allah’s Apostle (S.A.W) said, “The example of a believer is that of a fresh green plant the leaves of which move in whatever direction the wind forces them to move and when the wind becomes still, it stands straight.
Such is the similitude of the believer: he is disturbed by calamities (but like the fresh plant he regains his normal state soon). And the example of a disbeliever is that of a pine tree (which remains) hard and straight till Allah cuts it down when He wills.”
Sahih Bukhari, Volume 9, Book 93, Number 558
FROM FRENCH TO ENGLISH
Avant-garde (noun)
Innovative, experimental, and ahead of its time, particularly in art, culture, or creative expression.
When something is described as avant-garde, it marks a break from tradition, moving beyond established norms and conventions. The term is often applied to artists, musicians, writers, or movements that push boundaries, challenge expectations, and provoke thought.
To be avant-garde is to stand at the forefront of creativity and innovation, embracing risk and exploring new, unconventional ideas in the quest to redefine artistic or intellectual horizons.
Déjà vu (noun)
The uncanny feeling that you have already experienced something you are living through at the moment.
The phrase comes from French, literally meaning ‘already seen’. It describes that strange flicker of familiarity when a place, conversation, or event feels as though it has happened before, even though logic tells you it has not. Psychologists link déjà vu to memory processes, but in everyday life it remains a mysterious and almost dreamlike sensation.
Elite (noun)
A group of people considered the best, most powerful, or most influential in a society, profession, or field.
The word comes from the French élite, meaning ‘chosen’ or ‘select’. It often refers to those with privilege, status, or exceptional ability - whether in politics, sport, academia, or the arts. To be part of the elite suggests not only excellence but also exclusivity, setting a small group apart from the wider majority.
Faux pas (noun)
A faux pas is a social stumble - a moment when you step out of line without meaning to. The phrase is French for ‘false step’, and that image captures it perfectly: you trip, not over your feet, but over etiquette.
Faux pas can take various forms, such as saying or doing something impolite, tactless, or culturally insensitive. It might be as simple as forgetting someone’s name at a formal dinner, showing up in jeans to a black-tie event, or making a tactless remark in conversation.
These blunders vary by culture, which means what counts as a faux pas in one setting might go unnoticed in another. But the lesson is universal: paying attention to social cues, traditions, and sensitivities can save you from that awkward stumble.