Introduction
Arabic is a language with a non-Latin alphabet script. Although the 28 script letters are easier for English speakers to understand than the hundreds of Chinese characters, learning a new writing system takes time. The absence of most vowels in Arabic words makes reading and writing in the language extremely difficult for beginners. It’s also worth noting that Arabic is written from right to left rather than left to right, which takes some getting used to.
Some aspects of spoken Arabic make it tough to learn. Some of the sounds utilized, such as those emitted in the back of your throat, don’t exist in other languages or are just foreign to English speakers. Grammar is very difficult; verbs usually appear before the subject, and you must acquire a dual form of words in addition to singular and plural versions.
Learning Arabic
1. Start with the basics
It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to learn Arabic by transcribing words rather than studying Arabic first. Consider how we learned English at school. You learn the letters first, then how to put them together to form words, then how to write sentences and understand proper syntax and grammar. Taking shortcuts will simply slow you down. Studying the fundamentals of Arabic letters and pronunciation will make dealing with the language much easier.
2. The practice is the key
The only thing that will keep your boat upright is a lot of practice. Because it is such a complicated and confusing language, everyday skill is important. Fluency will only come with practice, as the saying says, “Practice makes a man perfect.” Every lesson you learn will need you to put it into practice As you progress in your study, you will need to practise what you have learned so far, now and then to ensure that you do not forget anything and that you continue to revise.
3. Watch your steps and then continue with the flow
Arabic learners frequently want intensive language teaching methods because they want to learn Arabic as rapidly as possible. While it is helpful to be encouraged, keep in mind that learning a language is not like learning to ride a bicycle; it cannot be learned at any time of day or night. Take care and don’t let go of your goal.
4. Seek assistance
Enrolling in any Arabic course is another beneficial idea for a beginner. This will assist you in receiving the appropriate direction in all areas, including the content. It will also be easier to assess your development and identify where you are making mistakes if you have a teacher. Aside from that, you’ll have someone with whom you may practise your Arabic conversation abilities. You can also seek assistance from someone who has spoken Arabic for a long time or who speaks Arabic as their first language.
5. Journal is important
Keep a notebook starting with the first lesson. When you learn something new and quickly write it down, it sticks in your minds. That is the most effective method for learning and remembering anything completely new to you. You may also make it more enjoyable by doodling, using stickers, using colored pens, and so on. This way, writing and practicing will not be as boring. Keeping a journal will also be beneficial in the future. You can immediately go back and verify if you forget anything you learned previously or if you have a doubt. It’s ideal for going over what you’ve learned again.
6. Speak Arabic with Natives
Someone who pays close attention to what is being said is said to be a good listener. If you pay attention to your teachers’ instructions, the sounds of the letters you’ve learned, and the paragraphs you’ve heard and read quietly, you’ll be able to speak Arabic.
The ability to engage with native speakers is perhaps the most evident benefit of learning a new language. This will help you to practise realistic English in real-life situations, as well as expose you to appropriate word pronunciation and familiarise you with the various letter sounds. You should look for a training buddy.
7. Never Quit Learning
Many individuals believe that this move is unreasonable, or at the very least that it should not be considered on a step-by-step basis. However, it is, in my opinion, the most difficult step, and if you skip it, your efforts will be for nought. As a result, you may need to augment your existing knowledge by learning something new every day.
Spend 20 to 30 minutes a day practising a single letter or two, then try to immerse yourself in the language by listening to as many local language sources as possible. After all, it’s these modest steps that will help you learn.
8. Explore!!!
To improve your Arabic language, watch movies, listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Speaking and listening are equally vital as reading and writing. Movies and music can aid to improve these skills because they not only improve the learner’s listening and comprehension abilities but also their speaking abilities through the use of pronunciations and dialogues.
You can also opt for online learning with Multibhashi to cope while you are learning the language from scratch.
So, what are you waiting for? Go get started.