10 Words in Moroccan Arabic - Blue Door Cuisine

What languages do they speak in Morocco?

Darija

The main language is Darija – Moroccan Arabic. This is Arabic in its grammatical base, so part of the Arabic family of languages. But it is so far removed from standard Arabic as a result of influences by the local Amazigh or Berber languages, and French, that an Arabic speaker will not understand what is being said.

Darija is spoken in several surrounding countries. Tunisian Darija is influenced by Italian. Darija in northern Morocco has a strong Spanish influence.

While Darija can be written in Arabic script, it is usually written in English letters, with the addition of four numbers: 3, 5, 7, and 9. 3 is an ‘a’ sound deep in the throat, 5 and 7 are different ‘h’ sounds, and 9 is like a ‘q’. These are some words:

 Za3za3 – an awesome fruit smoothie drink topped with oreos, fruit, nuts and other treats

 Wa5a – enough (see the word list below)

 Sou9 – markets

Also note that anything in Darija written with a ‘ch’ will have the French pronunciation of ‘sh’.

Amazigh

Morocco’s other language is Amazigh or Berber. It is currently a shrinking language, with many understanding it but not speaking it. All government and official buildings are labelled in both Arabic script and in Amazigh.

French – Most Moroccans will also speak French, which is used for administrative purposes as a hangover from French colonization. It is taught in high school.

Arabic – Most Moroccans will understand Arabic from rote learning the Quran from a young age, and especially Egyptian Arabic which is the language of TV shows and movies. It is the medium of instruction in government schools. Darija is not taught in the schools.

English – Now taught in most high schools, and gaining in popularity, many young people speak English.

Spanish – In Tangier and the north there is also quite a lot of Spanish spoken, especially amongst older folk.

Many Tangawi (Tangier people) will be comfortably able to use 3 to 5 of these languages, and they typically flit between them in normal conversation.

Why bother learning any Darija?

Language is an integral part of culture. It reflects values, attitudes and ways of thinking. You can find out more about the food and culture of Tangier by checking out a food event at Blue Door Cuisine. Some of what you might learn could include cultural words such as ‘inchallah’ and ‘humdulilah’. Keep in mind that a word translated does not always have the same meaning as the English one given on google translate.

A great example in Darija is the frequent use of the word ‘inchallah’ (said ‘in-shall-ah). This literally means ‘God’s will’, or ‘Allah’s will’.

When there is nothing more that can be done about something, I find this a comforting phrase. However, if you make an arrangement with someone and the answer is ‘inchallah’, that often doesn’t mean a commitment. It may well be a polite ‘yes’ which actually means no, or at best, maybe.

Besides a fascinating reflection of the culture, the other reason for learning a few words – and the most important reason – is to show respect, to let the locals know that you are interested in them and their culture.

Everywhere I visit, I try to at least learn to say thank you. This little bit of effort wins a smile. It can sometimes also win an extra treat of something unexpected.

Here are 10 words which are likely to earn you some extra smiles!

10 Words of Darija

1 Shukran – Thankyou (shook-run).

2 La, or La shukran – No, no thank you.

3 A – yes. And a head nod always works too.

4 Mez’yn – good.

5 Waha – OK. This is said almost like the ‘ck’ of back or loch (ness monster) – wa5a!

6 Safi – Enough (sar-fee).

7 Yalla – Let’s go, let’s do it.

8 Inch’allah – God willing, or Allah willing (in-sh-allah).

9 Assalamu-Alikum – when I hear in Tangier is salam-alikum. The answer is alikum salam. Hello, or peace to you.

10 Humduliliah, or humdullah – Praise be to god.

This last word, humdulilah, requires a cultural explanation. It is used far more than any such phrasing might be in English. Pat the far side of your chest a couple of times with the palm of your hand and it is a blessing and good wishes.

But it’s most useful function of all, is for everything. If you don’t understand, or just want to finish a conversation, if you’re at a loss for words – in fact almost anything – just say “humdulilah” and you’re covered.

A Few Useful Phrases

For those of you who are a little more adventurous, here are a few phrases you will surely have a chance to practice, and can be extremely useful. While there are many who know a little English – enough English – there are two big problems with Darija.

The first is that it is not on google translate. You can usually put in the English and google translate will bring up the Arabic, which will get you through. But that brings us to the second problem.

Many Moroccans can’t read. Which will make anything on google translate useless, even if they can speak it. So, if you explore beyond the medina – which is very much worth it (see the other articles) – these few phrases are likely to be extremely useful.

Can I have tea without sugar – Afak atay b’la suka.

Tea is typically sweet, and minted. If you want it without sugar, remember to ask. They may frown and say they can’t do it, but they can and will do it if you insist. (mint tea is atay nana)