Arabic. Arabic, along with Berber, is one of Morocco‘s two official languages, although it is the Moroccan dialect of Arabic, namely Darija, meaning “everyday/colloquial language“; that is spoken or understood, frequently as a second language, by the majority of the population (about 85% of the total population).
Also, do Moroccans speak French? The country’s official languages are Arabic and Amazigh, or Berber. Most people speak Moroccan Arabic – a mixture of Arabic and Amazigh infused with French and Spanish influences. … Two out of three people fail to complete their studies at public universities in Morocco, mainly because they don’t speak French.
In this regard, what are the top three languages spoken in Morocco?
- Arabic. The Standard and Classical forms of Arabic are among Morocco’s prestige languages.
- Berber.
- French.
- English And Spanish.
Also the question is, is Moroccan Arabic different? Moroccan is quite different to other dialects but it’s still Arabic. The general structure/syntax and majority of terms are the same and once you get your head around some of the basic differences, you can move ahead easier.
Subsequently, do they speak Spanish in Morocco? There are a number of languages of Morocco. According to a 2012 study by the Government of Spain, 98% of Moroccans spoke Moroccan Arabic, 63% spoke French, 26% Tamazight, 14% spoke English, and 10% spoke Spanish. …For decades, Morocco was a province of France. Before 1912 (when Morocco gained its independence), French was the official language for everything (business, school, diplomacy, etc.) except religious purposes where Arabic was used. French is the second most spoken language, with 33% of the population speaking it.
Can you kiss in Morocco?
If you are a foreign couple visiting and you kiss no one is likely going to say anything to you – kissing in Morocco is not illegal. However if one partner is Moroccan you may face additional scrutiny. While you might not get in trouble, it is highly frowned on to kiss or fondle each other in public.
Why is French used in Morocco?
The use of French is a colonial legacy of the French protectorate (1912–1956), and French no longer has any officially recognized status in Morocco. It is considered a prestige language in Morocco, and is often used for business, diplomacy, and government, serving as a lingua franca with non-Moroccans and non-Arabs.
Can you eat pork in Morocco?
Consumption of pork is prohibited by Islam. Pig farming is permitted in Morocco and Tunesia to cater for the European tourists who flock there annually. In neighbouring Algeria and Libya, the practice is, however, outlawed.
How do you say hello in Morocco?
Greetings: As-salaam Alaykum —– (literally) Peace be with you – interchangeable for “hello” Walaykum As-salaam —- response. Sbah l’kheir —– Good morning.
Do people speak English in Casablanca?
Casablanca – Major port city, best developed tourist market in the country so most people you deal with on the main tourist paths will speak English. … Has lots of important monuments; English will be spoken at all these attractions and in the main central parts of the city.
Where are Berbers from?
Berber, self-name Amazigh, plural Imazighen, any of the descendants of the pre-Arab inhabitants of North Africa. The Berbers live in scattered communities across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Mali, Niger, and Mauritania.
Is Moroccan Arabic written?
Moroccan Arabic is not often written. Most books and magazines are in Modern Standard Arabic; Qur’an books are written and read in Classical Arabic, and there is no universally standard written system.
Do Moroccans understand Egyptian Arabic?
And she’s right, many Moroccans do understand Egyptian Arabic, and even speak it. Of course those who are abroad and grow up in the West have a poorer understanding of Arabic, not living in Arab countries. … Generally, the Arabic dialects and Standard Arabic are mutually unintelligible.
Is Moroccan dialect Arabic?
Moroccan Arabic, also known as Darija, is the dialect of Arabic spoken in Morocco. It is very similar to the dialects spoken in Algeria, Mauritania, and Tunisia, but differs greatly from dialects spoken further east, in countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, and the Gulf countries.
What was Morocco called before?
Morocco was known as the Kingdom of Marrakesh under the three dynasties that made Marrakesh their capital. Then, it was known as the Kingdom of Fes, after the dynasties which had Fez as their capital.