Let’s Compare the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Dialect with Modern Standard Arabic
Part 5 in the “Arabs Say…” series: What are the advantages of using your local dialect over MSA? And what are the disadvantages?
Should Dialects Replace Standard Arabic as Official National Languages?
Part 4 in the “Arabs Say…” series: Imagine that your government made your dialect the official language of your country (instead of MSA). It would have a new, standardized spelling system and grammar rules and be used in newspapers and books. What is your opinion?
The Do’s and Don’ts of Greeting (and Kissing!) in Lebanon
We take a look at the customs for greeting in Lebanon. Know what to say in Arabic, when to shake hands, how to kiss Lebanese style.
A Child in My Parents’ Eyes
Rita and her mom had a lovely evening at a restaurant. But who ended up paying for dinner? (Hint: It wasn’t Rita or her mother!)
Lebanese Arabic Song: Khalik Bel Bait (Fairuz)
Learn Lebanese Arabic with Fairuz’s classic song Khalik Bel Bait (video with lyrics, English translation, and language notes).
Should I Learn Modern Standard Arabic or a Dialect?
Part 3 in the “Arabs Say…” series: If a foreigner comes to work or live in your country, should they learn Modern Standard Arabic or the dialect?
Lebanese Arabic Song: Majnoun (Ramy Ayach)
Learn Lebanese Arabic with Ramy Ayach’s hit song Majnoun (video with lyrics, English translation, and language notes).
Do Arabs Write in Their Dialects of Arabic?
Part 2 in the “Arabs Say…” series: Do you ever write in your dialect? In what situations? How do you know or decide how to spell words?
Variations in Spoken Arabic within Countries
Part 1 in the “Arabs Say…” series: Does everyone in your country use the same dialect? Are there any differences in speaking styles between urban and rural areas, regions, social classes, religions, or generations?
Around Dubai
Eman tells us about Dubai, the city she lives in, and why she thinks it’s so amazing.
Lebanon’s Street Food Market
Mariette and her friends explore foods of the world at Lebanon’s traveling street food festival.
Using an Arabic Dictionary: Tips for Learners
So, you’ve decided to study Arabic. From the get-go, you’re confronted with a number of challenges. You knew, of course, that you would have to