Key Egyptian Arabic Expression: كِده kida
كِده is likely the most quintessentially Egyptian word there is. Not only is it very high frequency in everyday speech, but it is unique to the Egyptian Arabic dialect. كِده is related to the Modern Standard Arabic word هكذا like this but takes on a range of idiomatic meanings on its own and in phrases.
Egyptian Arabic as a Written Language
Ahmad tells us about the barriers of diglossia in the Arabic-speaking world and how Egyptian Arabic is gaining ground as a written language.
Levantine Arabic Orthography
Learn how to read the Arabic script and tashkeel (voweling) used in Lingualism materials.
Unit 1: Egypt is the Number One Country to Visit for 2020
Let’s take a look at Unit 1 from the book The News in Egyptian Arabic.
Egyptian Arabic Pronunciation
Learn how to pronounce Egyptian Arabic and about the sound changes that distinguish it from other varieties of Arabic.
Egyptian Arabic Song: Zay Manty (Amr Diab)
Learn Egyptian Arabic with Amr Diab’s Zay Manty (video, English translation, and language notes).
Lebanese Arabic Song: Albi Ya Albi (Nancy Ajram)
Learn Lebanese Arabic with Nancy Ajram’s hit Albi Ya Albi (video, English translation, and language notes).
Expressions with the Eyes in Levantine Arabic
Nadine tells us about dozens of expressions and idioms in Levantine Arabic using the word eye(s) and other words related to seeing. Can you guess their meanings?
Egyptian Arabic Reading Practice: Saturated Fats May Affect Concentration
Practice reading Egyptian Arabic.
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).