Diglossia in the Arabic Language PDF

Diglossia in the Arabic Language Introduction to Diglossia Definition: A linguistic situation where two varieties of a language coexist, each serving different functions. First introduced by Charles Ferguson (1959). Common in Arabic, Greek, Swiss German, etc. High (H)...

Diglossia in the Arabic Language Introduction to Diglossia Definition: A linguistic situation where two varieties of a language coexist, each serving different functions. First introduced by Charles Ferguson (1959). Common in Arabic, Greek, Swiss German, etc. High (H) vs. Low (L) Varieties in Arabic Feature High (H) Arabic (Fusha/MSA) Low (L) Arabic (Dialect) Usage Formal, academic, religious, media Everyday speech, informal settings Grammar Complex, standardized Simpler, varies by region Vocabulary Classical, literary Borrowed/adapted words, slang Pronunciation Consistent across regions Varies widely Domains of Use High (H) Arabic: Education, news, religious sermons, literature. Low (L) Arabic: Casual conversation, social media, songs, storytelling. Effects of Diglossia Positive: o Preserves classical Arabic. o Enables a unified literary and religious identity. Negative: o Creates educational challenges. o Can limit access to formal education for some speakers. o Contributes to socio-linguistic inequality. Diglossia & Code-Switching  Diglossia: Clear separation of H and L in different contexts. Code-switching: Alternating between H and L in the same conversation/ alternating between different languages/alternating between dialects. Diglossic code-switching: Alternating between H and L in the same conversation. Modern Challenges & Changes Increased use of dialects in media and advertising. Social media blending formal and informal Arabic. Attempts to simplify Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). Conclusion Diglossia is a defining feature of Arabic. It shapes linguistic identity and communication. Ongoing debate about its impact on education and literacy.