Phonological Variation of /r/ in Selected Arabic Dialects

Abstract

The present study offers a descriptive examination of the Arabic phoneme /r/, renowned for its intricate and diverse nature within the Arabic phonological system. This research investigates the varied manifestations of the phoneme /r/ in different regional dialects, with a specific emphasis on its pronunciation in the initial, middle, and final positions of words. The paper's significance is rooted in its contribution to the comprehension of the Arabic /r/ phoneme, a multifaceted and diverse sound within Arabic phonological systems. The paper illuminates the phonetic variability of the /r/ by analyzing its distinct manifestations across diverse Arabic dialects and regions. This can potentially facilitate language acquisition and instruction. The investigation conducted by the authors pertains to the marked and unmarked characteristics of the phonological /r/ in Arabic. The population under investigation comprises a randomly selected group of Arabic-speaking individuals aged 18 years and older, encompassing both genders and hailing from diverse countries and regions. The study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, utilizing a unique features matrix and the Audacity Sound Recording and Analysis Application to examine the gathered data. The findings of the research enhance the comprehension of the phonetic variability that typifies the Arabic /r/ phoneme and elucidate its manifestation in diverse contexts and geographical locations. Furthermore, the outcomes of this investigation hold significance for the domain of language education and acquisition, and the techniques utilized were designed to guarantee the precision and dependability of the gathered information.