Mariam and Rea were revising the script of an episode Rea had prepared when Mariam points out a grammatical mistake found in the text. They discuss the issue and both agree that it is indeed a mistake where Plural had been used instead of Dual. They both decide to go over the grammatical rules of … Continue reading Episode 90 – Singular, dual, & plural nouns
Language
Episode 68 – Masculine and feminine words
Masculine and feminine words are two key elements in mastering the Arabic language. Knowing the gender of Arabic words allows us to be more understood and enhance our comprehension skills as well. Mariam teamed up with Khaled in this episode to explain how to differentiate masculine and feminine words, and how to use them in … Continue reading Episode 68 – Masculine and feminine words
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 55 – Art on vehicles
Join Mariam and Naim as they travel through Lebanon noting the art and slogans on cars, buses, trucks, and vans. Learn about this cultural and artistic display on Lebanese roads. What is the purpose of the art and writings? What do some of these phrases mean, and what do they tell you about the life … Continue reading Episode 55 – Art on vehicles
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 35 – Lebanese idioms
Ever heard a Lebanese phrase or expression that sounded awkward or did not make sense? For example, has someone ever asked you in Lebanese Arabic not to eat their head? Or have you ever heard someone talk about another person and say "the lettuce grew bigger inside their head"! Idiomatic expressions are a common feature … Continue reading Episode 35 – Lebanese idioms
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