Why Moroccans Write Darija with Latin Letters

When you see “Salam” or “Kif nti?” online - that’s Darija written with Latin script. It’s called “Arabizi” or “Darija Latin.”

The Letter-Sound Guide

  • a = like ‘a’ in “father”
  • 3 = ayn (guttural sound from throat)
  • 9 = qaf (deep k sound)
  • 7 = haa (strong h from throat)
  • kh = like Spanish ‘j’

“3lach? 7it?” = Why? Because?

Practice Exercise

Try writing your name in Darija Latin. DM me on Instagram for feedback!