Phonological variation of [s] in Almahweet Yemeni Arabic: A sociolinguistic investigation of the Rural-Urban dichotomy

Abstract

This sociolinguistic study examines phonological variation in Almahweet Yemeni Arabic, specifically focusing on the production of the [s] phoneme among the urban modern class (UMC) and rural working class (RWC). Data was collected through sociolinguistic interviews with 48 speakers and analyzed using the Labovian quantitative analysis approach. The study employed descriptive analysis, inferential statistical techniques, and Spradley’s ethnographic analysis model to identify speech patterns, significant differences, and sociocultural context. Findings indicate that RWC participants use the sound [ṣ] more frequently, potentially as a marker of community connection. Age influences [s] variation, but social class does not show significant differences. This research contributes to knowledge about phonological variation in Almahweet Yemeni Arabic, emphasizing the value of the Labovian quantitative analysis approach. It sheds light on the intricate relationship between language, society, and phonological variation, paving the way for further exploration in this field.

Keywords

• Correlation
• Labovian approach
• phonological variations
• Rural-Urban Dichotomy