Within the Arabic language however, there are numerous dialects. Palestine and its Arab neighbors (e.g. Jordan and Syria) speak a dialect from the subgroup of Levantine Arabic.
Modern Standard Arabic that is used throughout the Arab world and will also be understood in Palestine. During your time in Palestine you will probably find it easy to pick up a selection of Arabic words and phrases, this means that you will soon be able to greet people in Arabic! If you wish to study the Arabic language, we have several course options available at the Excellence Center.
The Palestinian dialect (اللهجة الفلسطينية)
The Palestinian dialect (اللهجة الفلسطينية) is the everyday spoken language and will be understood by the Palestinian people. Some of the words in Modern Standard Arabic are not really used in day-to-day conversation and some people may not understand the more formal language.
| Native speakers | 13 Million Palestinians |
| Language family | Afro-Asiatic > Semitic |
| Dialects | Fellahi; Madani |
| Writing system | Arabic alphabet |
| Dialect varieties | Intelligible varieties of Levantine Arabic |
However, the Palestinian dialect is one of the closest dialects to Modern Standard Arabic. If you have studied this subject or learnt some basic phrases in MSA you will find that it is relatively simple to pick up the Palestinian dialect and also, your time studying will not have been wasted. In fact, learning the Palestinian dialect is a great way to build upon your knowledge and expand your language skills.
Source: excellencenter.org
How to learn Arabic?
Learning Arabic can be an enriching experience, but it does require dedication. Here’s a breakdown of effective methods to get you started:
1. Master the Alphabet and Pronunciation:
- Arabic has a unique alphabet with different letter forms depending on their position in a word. Start by familiarizing yourself with the letters and their sounds.
- Pay close attention to pronunciation, as Arabic has sounds not present in English. Many resources online offer pronunciation guides and audio lessons.
- Consider referring to charts comparing Arabic letters to their closest English sounds.
2. Build Vocabulary:
- There are various approaches to vocabulary building. Flashcards are a classic method, allowing you to memorize words and their meanings.
- Mobile apps like Duolingo https://www.duolingo.com/course/ar/en/Learn-Arabic gamify the learning process, making memorization more engaging.
- Immerse yourself in Arabic media like music, movies with subtitles, or children’s shows to pick up vocabulary in a natural context.
3. Grasp Grammar:
- Arabic grammar has its complexities, but there are resources to make it manageable. Textbooks or online courses can provide a structured approach to learning grammatical rules.
- Focus on the core concepts like verb conjugations, sentence structure, and noun declensions.
- Practice exercises will solidify your understanding of grammar.
4. Prioritize Speaking and Listening:
- While memorizing is important, fluency comes from practice.
- Find a conversation partner, ideally a native speaker, to practice speaking and listening.
- Online platforms like italki connect you with tutors or language exchange partners.
- Shadowing exercises, where you repeat after native speakers, can improve pronunciation and listening comprehension.
5. Consider Formal Instruction:
- Enrolling in an Arabic language class provides structure, guidance, and feedback from a teacher.
- Look for classes offered by community colleges, adult education centers, or online platforms.
- If you can, consider intensive programs for faster progress.
Additional Tips:
- Set realistic goals and practice consistently.
- Find learning methods that suit your style, whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Embrace them as opportunities to learn.
- Immerse yourself in Arabic culture through movies, music, and books.
Remember, language learning is a journey. Be patient, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the process of discovering Arabic!
