How to write English words in Maltese

The trend of introducing English words into the Maltese language will be discussed at a public seminar which the National Council for the Maltese Language will be holding on April 12.

The seminar is the second to be held on the theme Reducing Uncertainties.

The council said that although Maltese language regulations provide guidelines on how to write words derived from the English language, such guidelines are very vague and, therefore, create uncertainties and disagreement over their interpretation. Such a situation was detrimental to the smooth development of the Maltese language and hinder journalists, translators and teachers in their work. The aim of the seminar was to bring together those interested in the matter to express their views before revising, clarifying or changing existing regulations.

Such an exercise would involve those interested in the Maltese language but particularly teachers, translators, writers, journalists, examiners and linguists, among others.

Those wishing to attend the seminar should inform the council on kunsilltalmalti@gov.mt or visit www.kunsilltalmalti.gov.mt.