Arabic varieties compared
Classical Arabic vs Modern Standard Arabic
What separates Classical Arabic from Modern Standard Arabic: grammar, vocabulary, style and which to study for your goals.
Short answer
Classical Arabic is the language of the Quran and of early Arabic literature. Modern Standard Arabic is its modern descendant, used today in news, books and official writing. They share the same core grammar, but MSA has modern vocabulary and simpler style, while Classical Arabic uses older words and constructions.
Same grammar, different era
Both use the same alphabet, root system, verb forms and case endings. A good reader of MSA can follow much Classical text, with help for older vocabulary.
Vocabulary and style
MSA adds modern words (computer, government, economy) and modern sentence styles influenced by journalism. Classical Arabic uses rarer words, rhetorical devices and constructions that are less common today.
Which to study
Study MSA for media, work, university and modern books. Study Classical Arabic for historical, literary or religious texts. Most learners start with MSA as a foundation.
Lisanova Academy teaches Modern Standard Arabic and Moroccan Darija online, in live 60-minute lessons with Moroccan teachers. Book a free trial lesson to start.
Related guides
- Modern Standard Arabic vs Quranic Arabic
- What is the difference between Darija and MSA?
- Learning the Arabic alphabet: a beginner's guide
See also Modern Standard Arabic lessons, Moroccan Arabic lessons, group Darija classes and pricing.
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