17:48 Feb 13 

The further explanation given by Qudsiaji is praiseworthy and adds to what has been said. I also agree to the literal meanings of Masha Allah as 'Holy is Allah'

17:40 Feb 13 

I think both aburiaz sahib and M Ikram have given good translations and explanations. I just want to add that literally "Subhallah" means "Holy is Allah/God".

'Mashallah' generally tends to be used in connection with people and their efforts and in English it is equivalent to the phrase "by the Grace of God" (i.e. good things happen by sheer grace of Allah). So when praising someone's good qualities or physical attributes or actions, we acknowledge that all acts of goodness and beauty are only by the Will/Grace of God.

'Subhanallah' is generally used when we see natural beauty of our surroundings and spontaneously we praise God as its creator. Even when talking about people, if we're praising someone's beautiful 'voice' for instance we can say "Subhanallah" indicating that it's a God-given talent.

"Subhanallah" in itself includes "mashallah" within its meaning because we're acknowledging that God 'willed' something that we are witnessing and are now praising Him for.

16:18 Feb 13 

They are Arabic!