Language Contact and Language Conflict in Arabic by Rouchdy Aleya

Author:Rouchdy, Aleya.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor & Francis (CAM)

CONCLUSION

A number of points have been raised in this paper. First, this study confirms the asymmetrical, if not unilateral process of linguistic convergence that it claims characterizes Tunisians’ interactions with Arabic speakers from the Middle East and identifies the main linguistic strategies adopted in this practice.

Second, some linguistic, sociocultural and ideological reasons behind this convergent practice have been put forward. The list is by no means exhaustive or conclusive. Further research is needed to verify the claims made here. However, the findings of this study first help to point in the direction of refuting mere “incomprensibility” as the main cause for Tunisians’ asymmetrical linguistic accommodation to Mashreqis. Second, they help to highlight the major role self image, mutual perceptions, and sociopolitical and cultural relations may be playing in shaping the linguistic interactions between speakers of Arabic in the East and West of the Arab world. It is argued that the notions of Arabness and native speakerness of Arabic are crucial parameters of power allocation designating linguistic dominance to the Mashreq and subordination to the Maghreb in contact situations. Linguistic convergence in this case can thus be interpreted as a sign of the need of the “ingroup” to integrate to the “outgroup.”

Third, the paper is intended to help put aside the widely believed, or wished for, myth (Abu Melhim 1991:231) that Arabs converse mfuṣḥa when they meet. This study confirms earlier findings (Abu Melhim 1991, 1992) concerning diglossic, multiglossic, and bilingual codeswitching as major strategies of accommodation among Arabic speakers.

Fourth, this paper proposes an expansion of accommodation theory in two ways. It proposes that it encompass not only the activity of speaking but also the act of understanding in long-term interactions as a form of convergence. This passive accommodation, can consist of actively participating in the communication process by letting the interlocutor use their own variety and not imposing one's own on them. Second, it suggests the introduction of “showing off” as a goal in linguistic convergence. It can be seen as a form of hidden prestige (associated with savoir faire) even if it is performed by a member of a “subordinate” group.

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