How to choose between Modern Standard Arabic or a local variant for your translation?
In our previous article that you can read here we talked about the special characteristics of translations into Arabic.
In this article, we analyse in detail how to choose the best variant to use.
Which are the variants of Arabic?
If you are considering translating a document or content into this language, the first decision to make is which variant of Arabic to use: Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) or a local variant?
This choice can have an impact on the effectiveness of your translation.
First of all, it is to note that there is also the so-called Classical Arabic, which is mainly used in religious texts, such as the Koran.
It has a complex grammatical structure and a much broader vocabulary. Classical Arabic is not commonly spoken in everyday life, but it is often used in quotations from the Koran or verses of poetry.
Derived from Classical Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic is the official variant of Arabic used in the media, in education, in formal contexts and in written contents such as contracts, technical manuals and product sheets.
It is understood by anyone with a certain level of literacy in Arabic-speaking countries.
There are also several local variants that vary from region to region, such as Egyptian, Moroccan, Levantine, Arabic Gulf, etc.
Each of these variants has its own vocabulary and pronunciation and is mainly used in informal daily communication and in familiar contexts.
When to use Modern Standard Arabic?
Modern Standard Arabic, usually abbreviated to MSA, is used in the following contexts:
Official and Academic Contents
MSA is the best choice for the translation of government, legal or academic documents, technical manuals, medical and pharmaceutical texts or educational contents, since it guarantees clarity and understanding by a wider audience.
Media and Publications
For example newspaper articles, journalistic reports, magazines and formal contents.
Interregional Communication
If your audience is spread across several Arabic-speaking countries, using MSA ensures uniform understanding.
When to use local variants
Advertising and Marketing Contents
If your audience is mainly local, for example in case of an advertising campaign in Egypt, using the Egyptian dialect can definitely be more effective and engaging. In our next article we will explore the topic of localisation in more depth.
Local Media
The use of dialect for TV and radio programmes and podcasts addressed to a local audience ensures more authentic and engaging communication.
Informal Content
For translations of dialogues in movies, TV series and social contents, local dialects make communication more natural and accessible.
Read our previous article: Why is the translation into Arabic different from the translation into other languages?
How to choose the right variant
The choice between MSA and local variants depends on the context and target audience of your translation.
MSA offers uniformity and formality, while local variants can create a more authentic and personal connection with a specific audience.
Our advice is to seek the advice of professionals who can evaluate all aspects and give you an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the different options.
You can find other information about MSA on Wikipedia.
Contact us now!
Contact us by email at info AT actionlineitaly.com or by filling in this .
We will be pleased to evaluate your request with the support of native Arabic-speaking professionals.
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