The Role of Modern Standard Arabic in Arabic-Speaking Countries

Modern Standard Arabic: What Is It?

Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), which evolved from Classical Arabic, known as “Qur’anic Arabic,” is the standardized form of Arabic used in formal writing, communication, literature, media, and education across the Arab world.

The Arab region encompasses various Arabic dialects used in daily life and casual communication. These dialects can vary significantly from one Arab country to another. However, this is not the case with Modern Standard Arabic MSA is a unified form of Arabic used across the Arab region in writing and formal speech. While you can learn an Arabic dialect through everyday conversation, it is taught in schools. Children first learn to speak the local dialect before learning Modern Standard Arabic.

Additionally, in terms of vocabulary, terms, and phrases, Arabic dialects have allowed modernization to influence the language. New words are added to each Arab country’s dialect from one generation to the next, enabling different generations to express their identities and reflect their own cultures through their local dialects. In contrast, It has preserved its identity and culture over time. This standardized form of Arabic has remained largely unchanged for many years, maintaining the purity of its origin, the “Quran” and allowing its uniqueness to remain untouched by the changes of time. It has played a huge role in Arabic language and culture preservation.

The uniqueness of Modern Standard Arabic lies in its universal usage across the Arab world. It is the fabric that weaves the Arab world together, linking the culture and people of the region.

So now let us delve deeper into this unique fabric of it and explore its significant role among Arabs.

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Religious Significance

Modern Standard Arabic is a simplified form of Classical "Quranic" Arabic. That is why it is essential to learn Modern Standard Arabic in order to read the Quran. To engage with the Quran and express their beliefs effectively, Arabs have to master Modern Standard Arabic. The significance of the Quran in the hearts and minds of Muslim Arabs is why, regardless of their regional dialects, they have a deep affection for Modern Standard Arabic MSA.

MSA: A Unifying Language and Identity

Modern Standard Arabic acts as a thread that weaves the Arab world together. In the minds of Arabs, the Arabic language is not just a means of communication; it is the language of their Holy Book, “the Quran”, which is the core of their Arabic identity. This is why it serves as the bond that ties together the diverse cultures of the Arab world and unites them as one nation, despite their differences and various dialects.

Despite the many Arabic dialects across the Arab region, which can differ significantly in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, making it sometimes difficult to understand people from different parts across the Arab regions, Modern Standard Arabic provides a common ground. All Arabs can understand and communicate easily in Modern Standard Arabic, as it is a unified form of formal Arabic that is not bound by any specific country. So, the easiest way to communicate across the Arab world is by using it. In the 22 Arab countries, you can be assured that you will be understood when using MSA.

There is a special feeling when using a unified language; it connects you not just to your country, but to a larger world. You are not only linked to your people but to different people from different countries. Suddenly, what you call home becomes a larger home for you. This is the magic and beauty of using Modern Standard Arabic.

Education in Schools and Universities

It is the formal form of the Arabic language used in school education across the Arab region. Children learn it in schools. Public schools teach most of their subjects using formal MSA, and some public universities also deliver their academic courses in MSA.

Literature, Journalism, and News Broadcasting Media

The Arabic literature has traditionally been expressed in Modern Standard Arabic. Poetry, novels, and stories are written in MSA, which offers unique linguistic features and a rich vocabulary that enhances the depth of Arabic literary works. This ensures that a wider audience can easily comprehend literary and intellectual content.

Modern Standard Arabic is also the language of Arabic journalism and news broadcasting on TV and radio. It is the standard form used in formal media communications across the Arab world.

Formal Speeches and Conferences

The language used in formal settings, such as speeches and conferences, conveys high levels of formality and officiality. It is also the language used in presidential speeches and Arab League conferences.

Legal Language

The highly formal nature of legal language has led to the adoption of Modern Standard Arabic as the language of expression in the legal field.

Translation and Global Communication

Modern Standard Arabic is the form of Arabic used in translation and interpretation. Its unified nature, widely understood by Arabs, has always played a crucial role in making it the preferred Arabic language for global communication and business settings. Global communication and trade involving Arab countries rely on Modern Standard Arabic MSA as the primary means of communication.

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Choosing the Right Form of Arabic Language for Learning

In summary, learning Arabic depends on your goals. If your goals align with one of the categories discussed above, then Modern Standard Arabic is certainly the form of Arabic you should pursue. Enrolling in modern standard Arabic courses will help you gain proficiency in this widely used form of Arabic, allowing you to communicate effectively across different fields and regions.

U-CAN Language Learning Institute

We believe that a warm and safe learning environment creates the perfect medium for learners to easily absorb new information. This concept shapes our mission, which is to create a home-like environment where learners can feel warm, comfortable, and safe to learn, communicate, engage, and express themselves freely within our Arabic culture.

U-CAN offers comprehensive courses in both Egyptian Colloquial Arabic “Egyptian Arabic Dialect” and Modern Standard Arabic Courses, catering to all levels; beginner, intermediate, and advanced, both in-person and online.

If you're ready to take this step, we’ll be thrilled to help you get started.

Here’s how you can get in touch with us:

Main Phone: +20 225 195 665 

Mobile Phone: +20 128 518 1009 

Email: u_canho@mailcan.com 

So, Take the Leap and Learn Arabic!

Author Name: Nancy Rizkallah