Arabic languages are some of the most commonly spoken in the world. The language itself currently ranks in the top ten of the world’s most spoken tongues, with a considerable number of speakers around the world. In fact, recent estimates suggest Arabic languages are spoken by around 186 million people on the planet.
Arabic languages use the words of the Qur’an, which is the holy text of the Islamic world. It is for this reason the various dialects are generally used in the Muslim world.
There are a large number of Arabic languages. However, Classical Arabic holds a special significance for the Muslim world due to its usage in the Qur’an.
What you will usually see and hear today is a version called Modern Arabic. This particular dialect is used on television, on radio and in other sectors of the media. If you visit an international conference, then you will often hear the modern version being spoken between delegates of educated Arab people.
Beyond these situations, the local Arabic languages can vary widely. It is for this reason an Iraqi speaker may find it quite difficult to understand the words spoken, by say, someone from Saudi Arabia.
Learning can take some time. Many people feel it is a difficult language to learn. However, this belief is true only to the extent that it is for all grammar we indulge in as non-natives. For example, if you have any experience in German, then you will probably find Arabic is a lot less difficult to master than German was, even though German is generally viewed as one of the easier vocabularies to learn.
The key is to invest time in mastering the vocabulary of Arabic languages. What most people find difficult is the fact Arabic languages, unlike the majority of European dialects, do not have similar letters and letter sounds. To combat this initial stumbling block, a learner would have to understand root words.
A difficult concept for people to master or even understand is the root system of Arabic languages. However, it is a basic feature of grammar and must be understood before progress can be made. Their words are made out of three letter roots, which convey a simple idea to the listener or reader. Then these initial three letter strands are added to in order to create the more complex but associated words.
To master the various Arabic languages takes more than just time. It takes a certain amount of experience too. You will have to visit and spend time in various regions becoming familiar with the different dialects you encounter. These differences can be substantial, so unless you spend time with the speakers you will not grasp even the basics of a dialect, never mind the finer points.
Mastering Arabic languages can be a rewarding and exciting experience. True dedication is often required resulting in a learned language and a keen sense of pride too.
