Do You Speak English in Moroccan Arabic (Darija): Essential Phrase for Travelers

If you’re visiting Morocco or speaking with Moroccans, one of the most useful questions you can ask is:
  “Do you speak English?”

This simple phrase can help you switch languages and communicate more easily when needed.

Let’s learn how to say it in Moroccan Arabic (Darija).

The Basic Way to Say “Do You Speak English?”

Here’s the most common expression:

• Wash katahdar b nagliziya? → “Do you speak English?”

This is the most natural and widely used way in Morocco.

🗣️ Pronunciation tip:
Say it like wash kat-hdar b-naglee-ziya.

Talking to a Man vs a Woman

In Darija, verbs change depending on who you’re talking to:

• Wash katahdar b nagliziya? → to a man

• Wash katahdari b nagliziya? → to a woman

The difference is small, but useful to know as you improve.

More Useful Variations

Here are other ways to ask:

• Katahdar english? → “Do you speak English?” (simpler, very common)

• 3afak, wash katahdar b l’anglais? → “Please, do you speak English?”

• Katfham english? → “Do you understand English?”

These are helpful in shops, taxis, restaurants, and hotels.

Useful Follow-Up Phrases

After asking, you can continue the conversation:

• Ana makanhdersh Darija mazyan → “I don’t speak Darija well”

• Na9dar nahdar b shwiya → “I can speak a little”

• Ta9dar t3awad, 3afak? → “Can you repeat, please?”

• Mafhamtsh → “I didn’t understand”

These phrases will help you keep the conversation going.

Cultural Note: Languages in Morocco

Morocco is a multilingual country.

Many people speak:

• Darija (Moroccan Arabic)

• Tamazight (berber)

• French

• English (especially in tourist areas)

Even if someone speaks English, starting with a few words in Darija will make a great impression.

Practice Morning Greetings with the Daily Darija Podcast

Want to hear how these expressions sound in real conversations?

🎙️ The Daily Darija Podcast helps you:

•  Hear natural Moroccan Arabic

•  Follow with transcripts

•  Practice pronunciation

•  Learn cultural context

🔗 Listen here → www.dailydarija.com/podcast 

Start Speaking Darija Today

Ready to speak Moroccan Arabic with confidence?

👉 Join my full Darija courses → Join my courses
👉 Listen to the Daily Darija Podcast → www.dailydarija.com/podcast 
👉 Download your FREE 50 Words and Phrases PDF → Download Here
👉 Follow me on Instagram → @dailydarija