Translation, Language, Culture

Though the country of Algeria has seen a number of cultural and linguistic influences during the course of its long history, it would seem that Arabic, French and Berber influences have been the strongest. Arabic is the official language of the country and is spoken by roughly 80% of the population. Berber was recognized as a national language in 2002 and is spoken by at least 20% of the population of Algeria. Although French has no official status in the country it is used to a large degree in governments and higher education facilities. Algerian Sign Language is used widely by the deaf in Algeria.

It may seem odd to some people that Algerian Translators are needed from time to time. After all, Algeria is not the only country where Arabic, Berber and French are spoken. However, because of the influence of other languages and cultures on the people of Algeria, certain differences have crept into the Arabic spoken in this country. To add to this, spoken Arabic differs quite a lot from the written form and so the spoken version of the language cannot simply be learned through a correspondence course. Jijel Arabic is a particularly noteworthy local variation. Perhaps the most confusing aspect of Algerian Arabic is the profuse borrowing of Berber words in the spoken form of the language.

During the course of the country’s history the people of Algeria have been exposed to many more languages than just these three. However it is these three which have proven to stay with the people of Algeria the longest. If you need some Algerian Arabic translated whilst in the country it might be a good idea to look at one of the major hotels for someone who might be able to assist in this regard. It helps if you speak French as you are more likely to get Arabic or Berber translated to French than to any other European language.

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