Common English Mistakes in Op-Eds by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from United Arab Emirates when writing a Op-Ed in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of passive voice

In recent years, it has been observed that the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates is being preserved with great effort. The traditional crafts and arts are being promoted by vVarious organizations,are promoting the traditional arts andcrafts and encouraging the younger generationis being encouraged to participate in these activities. It is believed that tThrough these initiatives, the rich history of the UAE will hopefullybe kept alive for future generations.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Very good! I changed some of the passive voice constructions to the active voice and made a few stylistic improvements."

In recent years, it has been observed that the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates is being preserved with great effort. Various organizations are promoting the traditional arts and crafts and encouraging the younger generation to participate in these activities. Through these initiatives, the rich history of the UAE will hopefully be kept alive for future generations.

In recent years, it has been observed that the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates is being preserved with great effort. The traditional crafts and arts are being promoted by various organizations, and the younger generation is being encouraged to participate in these activities. It is believed that through these initiatives, the rich history of the UAE will be kept alive for future generations.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of articles ('I have car' instead of 'I have a car')

In recent years, climate change has becomean urgent issue that affects everyone globally. In theUnited Arab Emirates, we see the impact on our environment and economy. GThe government has taken steps to addressthe problem, but more action is needed fromthe international community. We must work together to finda solution that benefits all nations and protects future generations.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to add missing articles ("the," "an," etc.)."

In recent years, climate change has become an urgent issue that affects everyone globally. In the United Arab Emirates, we see the impact on our environment and economy. The government has taken steps to address the problem, but more action is needed from the international community. We must work together to find a solution that benefits all nations and protects future generations.

In recent years, climate change has become urgent issue that affects everyone globally. In United Arab Emirates, we see impact on our environment and economy. Government has taken steps to address problem, but more action is needed from international community. We must work together to find solution that benefits all nations and protects future generations.