Loanwords stress and intonation in Algerian Arabic

Abstract

This paper deals with stress and intonation patterns of loanwords in Algerian Arabic and in particular in Algiers and Oran dialects. It shows that speakers always transferred the stress pattern of Algerian Arabic in borrowed words: the final syllable is stressed if it is the only heavy syllable in the word or if it is superheavy, otherwise stress is on the penultimate syllable. Intonation patterns are also transferred to loanwords in focus and polar questions. Focus is characterized in the Algiers dialect by a falling melodic contour occurring on the last syllable. In the Oran dialect, intonation is realized with a flat or slightly rising contour. In polar question Algiers speakers produce a rising-falling contour whereas the Oran speakers produce a rising melodic contour on the last syllable.

An Optimality Analysis of the Phonology of French Loanwords as Manifested in the Eastern Part of Algeria

“…As far as the Algerian context is concerned, reviewing the literature revealed that studies on French loanwords from a phonological perspective have not received ample attention within either the framework of OT or another theory. The only adequate study is that of Benali (2018), who dealt with stress and intonation patterns of loanwords in Algerian Arabic. The findings show that speakers tend to transfer the stress and intonation pattern of Algerian Arabic to the French loanwords.…”