Loan Words Stress System in Bedouin Jordanian Arabic: An Optimality Theoretic Account

Authors

  • Saleem Abdelhady

    Liberal Arts Department, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i4.8023
Received: 9 December 2024 | Revised: 25 January 2025 | Accepted: 27 January 2025 | Published Online: 22 March 2025

Abstract

This study examines the stress patterns of loanwords in Bedouin Jordanian Arabic (BJA) through an Optimality Theory framework. It analyzes a dataset of thirty-four words, including monosyllabic, disyllabic, and polysyllabic forms. The analysis is conducted in two phases: first, evaluating the data based on metrical parameters to verify earlier findings; and second, applying the Optimality Theory model to provide further insights. The findings confirm that stress in BJA follows a trochaic foot structure, progressing from left to right, with quantity sensitivity and final mora extrametricality, while avoiding degenerate feet. The study also highlights that BJA stress patterns align with universal phonological constraints, establishing a clear hierarchy that governs stress placement. The research supports the idea that loanword adaptation in BJA conforms to established theoretical frameworks, reinforcing prior conclusions and providing a comprehensive understanding of stress assignment mechanisms. Ultimately, this study contributes to the broader discussion on stress patterns in Arabic dialects within a theoretical phonological context.

Keywords:

Phonology; Loan Words; Stress; Jordanian Arabic; Optimality Theory

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How to Cite

Abdelhady, S. (2025). Loan Words Stress System in Bedouin Jordanian Arabic: An Optimality Theoretic Account. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(4), 14–22. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i4.8023

Issue

Vol. 7 , Iss. 4 (April 2025): In Progress

Article Type

Article

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Copyright © 2025 Saleem Abdelhady

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This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License.