After reading about language change and its inevitability, I decided to talk to my father about the changes he has observed in our language, Arabic, over the years. Our conversation revealed some fascinating insights into the evolution of the language.
Firstly, my father noted a significant shift in pronunciation, particularly with younger generations adopting a more relaxed and colloquial way of speaking. He mentioned that in his youth, there was a stronger emphasis on classical Arabic, especially in formal settings. Nowadays, there’s a noticeable trend towards using dialectal Arabic even in contexts where classical Arabic would have been preferred. In terms of vocabulary, he highlighted the incorporation of numerous foreign loanwords, particularly from English and French, into everyday Arabic. This phenomenon was less prevalent during his younger years when Arabic equivalents or adaptations were more commonly used.
Another change he observed was in slang and colloquial expressions. Many phrases he used in his youth have fallen out of favor, replaced by new expressions that often perplex him. Spelling and grammar have also undergone transformations, albeit to a lesser extent. The advent of digital communication has introduced abbreviations and shortcuts, much like in English texting culture. My father recounted how formal writing was more rigid and strictly adhered to grammatical rules, whereas now, informal communication often bends these rules, incorporating elements of spoken dialects and simplified structures.
In conclusion, my conversation with my father underscored the dynamic nature of Arabic. Pronunciation, vocabulary, and informal writing practices have all evolved, reflecting broader cultural and technological shifts. It’s a reminder that language is a living entity, continually shaped by the speakers who use it.