The Pragmatic Functions of Yahummalali in Jordanian Spoken Arabic

Abstract

This paper aims to identify the pragmatic functions of the discourse marker Yahummalali in Jordanian spoken Arabic (JSA). To this end, the researchers compiled a list of scenarios that include Yahummalali on the basis of their exposure to this expression and familiarity with its contexts in Jordanian society. They then identified the pragmatic function of Yahummalali in each scenario. The identified functions were subjected to a validation process by a panel of jurors who suggested amendments to certain scenarios and functions. The acceptability of the amended version was tested against the intuition of 55 BA Jordanian students at the University of Jordan. The analysis reveals that Yahummalali has nineteen pragmatic functions, viz., expressing dismay and disapproval, fear, condemnation, disappointment, mitigating exaggerated claims, wishing, expressing sadness, regret, dissatisfaction, shock, making threats, ridiculing, expressing anger, jealousy, desperation, surprise, sarcasm, indecisiveness and doubt or uncertainty. Keywords: Discourse marker, Jordanian spoken Arabic, pragmatic functions, Yahummalali.