Arabic For Dummies (PDF)

Regarded as one of the most difficult languages to learn for native
English speakers by the U.S. State Department, Arabic is gaining
both prominence and importance in America. Recent world events have
brought more and more Americans and other English speakers into
contact with Arabic-speaking populations, and governments and
businesses are increasingly aware of the importance of basic Arabic
language skills. Arabic for Dummies provides you with a
painless and fun way to start communicating in Arabic.

Why should you learn Arabic? Well, besides the fact that over
200 million people in more than 22 nations use it to communicate,
there are tons of reasons to get up to speed this 1,400 year old
language, including:

* Nearly all of the Middle-East speaks Arabic or one of its
dialects

* Basic Arabic skills are extremely useful for anyone traveling
to, doing business in, or serving in the Middle East

* It is the language in which the Koran is written

* There is a rich, centuries-old literary tradition in
Arabic

Arabic For Dummies presents the language in the classic,
laid-back For Dummies style. Taking a relaxed approach to this
difficult language, it's packed with practice dialogues and
communication tips that will have you talking the talk in no time.
You'll get the scoop on:

* The Arabic alphabet, pronunciation, basic grammar, and the
rules of transliteration

* The history of the language and information on classical Arabic
and its dialects

* How to make small talk and make yourself understood when
dining, shopping, or traveling around town

* How to communicate on the phone and in business
conversations

* Handy words and phrases for dealing with money, directions,
hotels, transportation, and emergencies

* Arabic culture and etiquette, including ten things you should
never do in Arabic countries

The book also includes an Arabic-English dictionary, verb
tables, and an audio CD with dialogues from the book to help you
perfect your pronunciation. Written by a native Arabic speaker who
helped start a year-round Arabic department at Middlebury College,
Arabic For Dummies is just what you need to start making
yourself understood in Arabic.

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are
not included as part of eBook file.