Speaking with my grandmother about changes in the Arabic language shed light on how language reflects societal shifts. Growing up, she emphasized the importance of proper pronunciation and formal Arabic in education and public speaking. However, she noticed a shift in recent years towards a more relaxed approach, with younger generations favoring colloquial dialects in everyday conversation. This change, she believes, stems from increased exposure to Western media and globalization.
In terms of vocabulary, my grandmother highlighted the influence of technology on language usage. While she grew up learning Arabic words for technological concepts, such as “computer” or “internet,” younger generations often use English terms instead. This reflects the integration of technology into daily life and the dominance of English in the digital world.
Furthermore, my grandmother mentioned changes in spelling and grammar, particularly in written communication. With the rise of social media and texting, she observed a tendency towards shorthand and informal language. While she values the beauty of formal Arabic script, she acknowledges the convenience of digital communication.
Overall, my conversation with my grandmother underscored the dynamic nature of language and its responsiveness to societal changes. From pronunciation to vocabulary and writing style, Arabic continues to evolve, adapting to new contexts and influences. As a bilingual individual, I appreciate the richness of language diversity and the importance of preserving traditional forms while embracing contemporary expressions.