Welcome to our guide on how to say “school” in Moroccan. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing this term. Additionally, we will touch on any regional variations that are necessary. With tips, examples, and explanations, you’ll soon be familiar with the Moroccan word for school.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say School in Moroccan
Let’s start with the formal ways to say “school” in Moroccan. These expressions are commonly used in formal settings, educational contexts, and official conversations.
1. المدرسة (al-madrasa)
One of the most common ways to say “school” in Moroccan Arabic is المدرسة (al-madrasa). This term is widely understood throughout Morocco and is used in both written and spoken Arabic. It is the go-to term in formal settings.
Example: قابلت صديقتي في المدرسة اليوم. (Qābalt ṣadīqatī fī al-madrasa al-yawm.)
Translation: I met my friend at school today.
2. المدرسة العمومية (al-madrasa al-ʿumūmiyya)
Another formal term for “school” in Moroccan Arabic is المدرسة العمومية (al-madrasa al-ʿumūmiyya). This term specifically refers to public schools, which are state-run and accessible to all students.
Example: هذا المشروع يستهدف تحسين المدارس العمومية في المنطقة. (Hādhā al-mashrūʿ yastahdifu taḥsīn al-madāris al-ʿumūmiyya fī al-munṭaqa.)
Translation: This project aims to improve public schools in the area.
Informal Ways to Say School in Moroccan
Now, let’s explore the more informal ways Moroccans commonly refer to “school” in casual conversations. These terms are widely used among friends, family, and acquaintances.
1. لمدرسة (l-madrasa)
In everyday conversations, Moroccans often use the shortened form لمدرسة (l-madrasa) instead of المدرسة (al-madrasa). This informal rendition is more relaxed and commonly heard in colloquial speech.
Example: عندي الكثير من الواجبات الليلة من لمدرسة. (ʿandī al-kathīr min al-wājibāt allīla min l-madrasa.)
Translation: I have a lot of homework from school tonight.
2. الخواص (l-khawāṣ)
In certain regions of Morocco, another informal term for “school” is الخواص (l-khawāṣ). This variation is commonly used in everyday conversations among friends.
Example: كنا نتكلم عن المدرسة والأصدقاء في حفلة الأمس. (Kunna natakallam ʿan al-madrasa wal-aṣdiqāʾ fī ḥafla al-ams.)
Translation: We were talking about school and friends at yesterday’s party.
Regional Variations in Saying School in Moroccan
While the above terms are widely used across Morocco, there can be slight regional variations. Here are a couple of examples:
1. الدريّة (ad-drya)
In some regions of Morocco, particularly in the north, another term for “school” is الدريّة (ad-drya). This expression is commonly used in informal conversations but might not be as widely understood in other parts of Morocco.
2. السطمة (as-stma)
In certain areas of southern Morocco, you might come across the term السطمة (as-stma) to refer to a “school.” This local variation is used among locals and may not be recognized by everyone.
Conclusion
After reading this guide, you should now be familiar with various ways to say “school” in Moroccan Arabic. Remember, المدرسة (al-madrasa) is the standard and formal term, while لمدرسة (l-madrasa) is commonly used informally. Additional regional variations like الدريّة (ad-drya) and السطمة (as-stma) may also exist. So go ahead, practice using these expressions, and expand your linguistic skills in Moroccan Arabic!
