A Comparative Conversation Analysis of Jazani and Hejazi Arabic: Exploring Phonological, Morphosyntactic, Lexical, and Interactional Variation

This study investigated the linguistic characteristics of two prominent Saudi dialects in terms of phonology, morphosyntactic structures, lexicon, and discourse markers. The primary objective was to uncover variations and potential social correlations within these linguistic elements. Jazani Arabic, spoken in the Jazan region, and Hejazi Arabic, spoken in the Hejaz region, were meticulously examined using conversation analysis. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of language in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing regional and sociolinguistic factors. The findings could inform language teaching methods, curriculum development, and communication strategies. Language educators could tailor programs to address specific phonological, morphosyntactic, and lexical features, enhancing learners’ proficiency and cultural competence. Moreover, sociolinguists could leverage the findings in broader studies on language change, contact, and identity within the Saudi context. Understanding dialectal variation is crucial for comprehending the intricacies of linguistic diversity in the region. Communication professionals could benefit from the study’s insights into discourse markers, which play a pivotal role in cross-cultural communication. A better understanding of these markers could foster more effective communication with speakers of different dialects, contributing to more successful intercultural interactions. Finally, the integration of the findings into teaching materials could promote more authentic language learning experiences. Such an approach would ensure that language learners engaged with the nuances of Saudi dialects, fostering a more culturally sensitive and context-specific language learning environment.