A Comparison of Arabic with the Situation of Romance Languages
Rogério argues that the evolution of Romance languages is a key to understanding the situation of the Arabic language today.
My Journey Learning Arabic
My struggle with Arabic began in October 2012, with a couple of false starts. I tried initially to find a private tutor for Egyptian Arabic
Which Arabic Dialects Are the Easiest and Most Difficult for Arabs to Understand?
Part 8 in the “Arabs Say…” series, we ask: Which Arabic dialects are the easiest and most difficult for you, as an Arab, to understand?
Is Modern Standard Arabic Difficult for Arabs?
Part 7 in the “Arabs Say…” series, we ask: How proficient are you in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)? What is difficult for you? Do you make any mistakes?
Unique Words in Arabic Dialects that Even Other Arabs May Not Understand
Part 6 in the “Arabs Say…” series, we ask: What are a few words that are unique to your dialect which Arabs from other countries might find amusing or not understand?
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?
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!)
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?
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.