A Study of the Linguistic Problems Faced by Saudi English Language Students at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) when Translating from Arabic into English

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the linguistic problems confronted by Saudi students majoring in English language and literature at Prince Sattam Bim Abdulaziz University (PSAU) when they translate from Arabic into English. The study adopted the quantitative approach in data collection. Students written assignments were linguistically analyzed. Results revealed that the students suffer from a variety of grammatical problems that hinder them from translating Arabic into English correctly. The students also have difficulty with vocabulary. They could not find the most suitable English equivalent of Arabic words that suits the context. This study provides some recommendations related to students’ admission to the English department, the syllabus, teaching methodology, and assessment.