Choosing The Right Arabic : MSA or Dialects

 

Before you choose an Arabic course, it's crucial to have some prior knowledge of the Arabic language. It's important to know that there are three main standard dialects of Arabic, as well as Modern Standard Arabic. After conducting thorough research and gaining a clear understanding of the distinctions between MSA and the different dialects, you can confidently choose the appropriate Arabic course to reach your goals efficiently.

 

 MSA And Arabic Dialects

 

Many Arabic teachers and institutions, including universities, neglect to inform students who are eager to learn the Arabic language about the important aspects mentioned above. This lack of guidance often leads to confusion for Arabic learners. Arabic is a unique language that cannot be compared to learning Spanish or Italian. Therefore, it is essential to educate oneself on the how many Arabic dialects we have in the Middle East, the purpose of learning Modern Standard Arabic, and why you want to learn Arabic. Is it for work or travel? Or simply to be able to read and write Arabic texts and understand formal documents and Arabic news? These are all important factors to consider before choosing the right Arabic and the right course

 

 

In daily life, Arabic dialects are the primary mode of communication among family, friends, and colleagues. Growing up in an Arab country means learning the local dialect and using it in everyday conversations. This is a common experience shared by all Arabs and, If you have Arab friends, they will tell you the same . In addition, most Arabic movies and shows are also presented in various dialects.

Modern standard Arabic is primarily used for reading books of Arabic literature, comprehending and understanding the news in Arabic, and reading the Quran.

 

There is a misconception that there are so many Arabic dialects, but in reality, there are only 3 main ones. Mastering one dialect will make it much easier to understand the other two. Consider yourself an English person conversing with someone from the USA or Australia. That is the only distinguishing factor.

 

"A person with a British accent stands next to another with an American accent and another with an Australian accent. Despite their different accents, all three are speaking English and can understand each other perfectly. The only difference is in their pronunciation and word usage, but they are all still communicating in the same language"

 

The three main Arabic dialects are: Levantine, Gulf, and Egyptian. All Arabs can communicate with each other using these dialects because they are very similar.

 

1. Levantine Arabic

 

Levantine Arabic is spoken in countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. This dialect has a softer tone compared to other variants of Arabic, making it easier for non-native speakers to learn. It is also commonly used in media and entertainment and has influenced other regional dialects due to its prominence.

 

 

2. Gulf Arabic

 

Gulf Arabic is spoken in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, UAE, and Yemen. It is considered one of the more complex dialects due to its unique vocabulary and pronunciation. However, learning Gulf Arabic can be useful for those planning to work or travel to these oil-rich countries.

 

3. Egyptian Arabic

 

Egyptian Arabic is exclusively spoken in Egypt, and its dialect is distinctively soft and clear, similar to Levantine Arabic.

 Also, it should be noted that many Arabs are able to understand multiple dialects due to exposure through media and travel within the region. Therefore, even if you encounter someone who speaks a different dialect than you have learned, they will likely still be able to understand you.

It is a well-known fact that Arabic native speakers do not use Modern Standard Arabic when communicating with friends, colleagues, or family. This form of Arabic is only reserved for reading books or watching Arabic news on channels like Al Jazeera. Children in Arab countries are first taught how to speak their regional dialects before learning MSA.

 

 

How to Choose The Right Arabic Course?

 

If your objective is to effectively communicate with Arabic native speakers, understanding cultural nuances, and connecting with Arabic-speaking communities, it is important to select a specific Arabic dialect, such as Levantine Arabic, and focus on mastering it.

If you aim to read and comprehend Arabic news stories and literature, or develop skills in reading the Quran, then Modern Standard Arabic is an ideal option.

By now, I hope you have a thorough understanding of how to select and choose the perfect Arabic course that will help you reach your goal in a timely manner.