Common English Mistakes in Official Statements by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from Saudi Arabia when writing a Official Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of formal expressions ('I am honored to inform you...')

I am honored to inform you that tTheesteemed government of Saudi Arabia is delighted to announce the initiation of the new infrastructure project, which is a significant step towards the development of our beloved nation. It is with great pleasure and utmost respectthat we extend our sinceregratitude to all theour distinguished partners and stakeholders who have contributed to this monumental endeavor. We are privileged to assure you that this project will bring prosperity and advancement to our cherished citizens.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I took out some of the overly formal language to make it read more smoothly."

The government of Saudi Arabia is delighted to announce the initiation of the new infrastructure project, which is a significant step towards the development of our beloved nation. It is with great pleasure that we extend our gratitude to all our distinguished partners and stakeholders who have contributed to this monumental endeavor. We assure you that this project will bring prosperity and advancement to our citizens.

I am honored to inform you that the esteemed government of Saudi Arabia is delighted to announce the initiation of the new infrastructure project, which is a significant step towards the development of our beloved nation. It is with great pleasure and utmost respect that we extend our sincere gratitude to all the distinguished partners and stakeholders who have contributed to this monumental endeavor. We are privileged to assure you that this project will bring prosperity and advancement to our cherished citizens.

Mistake Example #2

Confusion between masculine and feminine pronouns

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health would like to assure the public that heit is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of our citizens. We have instructed our teams to increase their efforts, and sthey will continue to monitor the situation closely. The government remains committed to transparency, and hewill provide updates as more information becomes available.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"Please be mindful of your use of pronouns. For example: "he is taking" should be "it is taking" and "and she will continue" should be "and they will continue"."

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health would like to assure the public that it is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of our citizens. We have instructed our teams to increase their efforts, and they will continue to monitor the situation closely. The government remains committed to transparency, and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health would like to assure the public that he is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of our citizens. We have instructed our teams to increase their efforts, and she will continue to monitor the situation closely. The government remains committed to transparency, and he will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Mistake Example #3

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health announced new measures to ensure public safety. It is important that all citizens follow the guidelines that wasere provided to prevent the spread of illness. The government urges everyone to stay informed and cooperate with local authorities during this time.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I fixed some problems with the verb tense, but otherwise your statement is clear."

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health announced new measures to ensure public safety. It is important that all citizens follow the guidelines that were provided to prevent the spread of illness. The government urges everyone to stay informed and cooperate with local authorities during this time.

In response to recent developments, the Ministry of Health announce new measures to ensure public safety. It is important that all citizens follow the guidelines that was provided to prevent the spread of illness. The government urge everyone to stay informed and cooperate with local authorities during this time.