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Does the King of Jordan Speak Arabic?

Published in Jordanian Monarchy Languages 2 mins read

Yes, the King of Jordan, Abdullah II, does speak Arabic, but his command of the language has certain nuances. While he can communicate effectively, his proficiency in classical Arabic is considered limited, with English being his primary language.

Understanding the King's Arabic Proficiency

King Abdullah II's linguistic background reflects a blend of influences, characteristic of some members of the elite in Amman. His communication skills in Arabic are pragmatic, allowing him to interact directly with his people and military personnel.

Key aspects of his Arabic proficiency include:

  • Command of Arabic: His overall command of Arabic is described as poor, particularly concerning classical or formal Arabic.
  • "Street Arabic" Fluency: He is known to speak "street Arabic," which is a more colloquial and informal version of the language. This practical form of Arabic enables him to communicate without issues in everyday situations, for instance, when addressing soldiers under his command.
  • English as First Language: Reflecting a common trend among the Jordanian elite, English is considered his first tongue or primary language.

This linguistic profile highlights that while the King is proficient enough to engage in general conversations and fulfill his duties, his strongest linguistic command lies with English.

Summary of Language Skills

To further illustrate the King's language proficiency, the following table provides a breakdown:

Language Type Proficiency/Usage
Arabic (General) Spoken, but overall command is described as poor.
Classical Arabic Not strong; his command does not extend to the formal or literary aspects of the language.
Street Arabic Spoken effectively; sufficient for everyday communication and direct interaction (e.g., with military personnel).
English His primary language and "first tongue," indicating the highest level of fluency and comfort.

This distinction is important for understanding the scope of his Arabic language capabilities.