Is Arabic a difficult language to learn?

Answer 1

Arabic script is composed of 28 letters. Hence, it is not difficult to learn the Arabic alphabet. Those can be learnt in 8 days (by learning 4 letters per day). Arabic language is Semitic. It is root based. The fact that it is root based whereby many words can be formed from one root, makes it possible to understand many words by learning a few words (base roots). Arabic is NOT a difficult language to learn. Arabic has been taught in traditional ways focusing on memorization rather than comprehension. This has given the impression that it was difficult to learn. Nowadays Arabic is taught in modern ways and even over the internet - http://www.arabacademy.com . Arabic is considered as a critical language by the US government and Americans are encouraged to learn it.

I agree with the above answer. Moreover, the difficulty of a language is relative and your dedication to learning it is a far more important consideration than concerns over its perceived difficulty. That said, Arabic is certainly a trickier language for most English speakers to learn than Spanish or French.

Pronunciation is often said to be very difficult, but as with any language, time and practice is all it takes. If your native language or dialect of English, uses velar or uvular sounds (German, Russian, dialects of English like Irish, Welsh and Scottish) you'll find yourself at a considerable advantage when learning Arabic.

The script is phonetic, and nowhere near as difficult as it appears; although reading with speed takes time and the lack of short vowel markings in almost all texts (except the Qur'an and Children's Books) can cause problems.

MSA grammar is complex, but its an infinitely more logical language than English in this respect. Arabic is a language of patterns applied to 3 (sometimes 4) root letters: learn the patterns and you'll learn the language. You'll find you've begun to crack Arabic when you can correctly apply patterns to new roots yourself, after this point the logic of the language makes it easy.

One final point: there is a great emphasis in universities and colleges on learning the standard language, turning out graduates who can read a newspaper and give a presentation in MSA but who can't maintain a conversation in the colloquial language. If your goal is to work with Arabic materials or work for an international organisation, then MSA alone might suffice; if you want to understand Arab culture and people, you have to learn a dialect as well. Remember: MSA is no one's native language and it is by no means fluently spoken across the region. If you're looking for a dialect, Egyptian is a good starting point, partly because it's the most populated Arab country and also the most widely understood dialect. Check out Samia Louis' series at aucpress.com Definitely recommended.

7az sa3eed fi dirastak - Good luck with your studies!

Answer 2

Arabic can be challenging to learn due to its complex grammar, diverse dialects, and unique writing system. However, with dedication and practice, it is certainly possible to acquire proficiency in the language.