Have you ever come across the word "raqs" or "raks" and wondered which spelling is correct? Let's explore the origins of this word and why both spellings can be considered acceptable.
The word "raqs" comes from Arabic, where it is spelled as "رقص". In Arabic, the pronunciation of this word involves a guttural sound made from the back of the throat (lingual-glottal) that doesn't have an exact equivalent in English. This can lead to variations in spelling when transliterating the word into English, but is generally pronounced with the "k" sound in English.
Both "raqs" and "raks" are commonly used in English to refer to a form of Middle Eastern dance. While some may argue for the more traditional "raqs" spelling, others prefer the simplified "raks" version. Ultimately, both spellings are acceptable in English.
We just think the "Q" looks cooler.
Anya, founder of Raqs Yoga Life, chose to go with the "raqs" spelling because she felt that the inclusion of the letter "Q" added a unique and visually appealing touch to the word. Sometimes, it's not just about correctness, but also about aesthetics.
Next time you see "raqs" or "raks" used to describe a mesmerizing dance performance, remember that both spellings are valid. Whether you prefer the traditional "raqs" or the modern "raks," the beauty of the dance remains unchanged. Fun fact -- typing in raksyogalife.com works too!
0 comments