Newcomers to Tunisia find out quickly that language is not as simple as some think.  In Tunisia there are at least three dominate languages and several others that can be used and heard in many contexts.

Newcomers to Tunisia find out quickly that language is not as simple as some think.  In Tunisia there are at least three dominate languages and several others that can be used and heard in many contexts.  

Modern Arabic is a standard for schools, media, and of course written materials, namely the Koran.  It is considered a sacred language and is the what many know simply as “Arabic.”

However, most every “Arab” country has their own specific dialect.  One might think these dialects are only minor diversions from MSA (Modern Standard Arabic), but unfortunately, they are not.  An Egyptian can come to Tunisia and speak MSA and be understood, but might not have the first clue when someone responds in Tunisian Arabic (otherwise known a Derja).  

After the language of the people, there is an international language of choice for commerce.  In Tunisia this is French.  As a former French colony, the French language still dominates the land, particularly the capital.   Road signs, advertisements, and most residents with an elementary education can and do speak French.  However, a journey only 50 km from Tunis will prove that French does not permeate the rural areas of the country.