Episode 62 – Demonstratives (this vs. that)

Mariam joins forces with Leen to tell us about the grammatical concept of demonstratives, which help us differentiate objects, events, and people in relation to the speaker. We select demonstratives such as "these" and "those" based on our perceived closeness or distance to the object. So whether you want to talk about these trying times … Continue reading Episode 62 – Demonstratives (this vs. that)

Episode 49 – Expressions for life events

There are expressions that help us express what we feel at important life events such as births, birthdays, professional successes, weddings, and funerals. These expressions convey our care and solidarity with others and reinforce our communal bonds. In this episode, Leen explores expressions for life events that we all experience. She also tell us about … Continue reading Episode 49 – Expressions for life events

Episode 48 – Colloquial Lebanese words (2)

In this episode, Leen introduces twenty colloquial words that are often used in Lebanon. These words and expressions help express thoughts and ideas and also describe people, animals, and things. So if you want to compliment a stylish person, complain about traffic, ask someone to move out of your way, or chit chat with friends … Continue reading Episode 48 – Colloquial Lebanese words (2)

Episode 47 – Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian dialects

Levantine dialects across Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine share much in common but also have noticeable differences. The Levantine dialects are important parts of the mosaic of Arabic dialects spoken across the Middle East. The popularity of Syrian and Lebanese TV shows, television drama series, and music have contributed to these dialects being widely understood across … Continue reading Episode 47 – Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian dialects

Episode 43 – Colloquial Lebanese words

Lebanese use lots of words that are distinct from Modern Standard Arabic and other Arabic dialects. Spoken Lebanese Arabic developed and continues to evolve due to the diverse cultural and linguistics communities within the country, interactions with the broader world, and the natural evolution of colloquial speech as new words enter the lexicon and old … Continue reading Episode 43 – Colloquial Lebanese words

Episode 21 – Arabized French words

French words form an integral part of the Lebanese dialect. This influence stems from France's 23 years of mandate rule over Lebanon after World War I. Since then Arabized French words have become a defining feature that you hear sprinkled throughout daily Lebanese conversations. In this episode, Mariam points out several Arabized French words in … Continue reading Episode 21 – Arabized French words