Evolving Address Terms in Jordanian Arabic: Implications for English Language Learning and Cross-Cultural Communication

Abstract

This study investigates the evolving nominal terms of address in the urban community of Irbid City, Jordan, within a broader sociolinguistic framework. Based on 500 instances of naturally occurring address terms collected over six months through non-paticipant observation in public settings like cafés, markets, and service encounters, the study examines how address practices vary across generations, genders, and social-classes. Using qualitative content analysis within a sociolinguistic variationist framework, the findings reveal a decline in traditional kinship-based terms and the emergence of innovative address forms, particularly among younger speakers. These changes reflect broader social transformations and evolving identity dynamics. A comparative analysis with English-speaking contexts highlights linguistic evolution similarities, particularly the informality trend. However, while English address systems increasingly favor first-name usage and gender-neutral terms, Jordanian Arabic exhibits a restructuring process that blends traditional and modern influences. Additionally, the study highlights the implications of address term variation for English language studies, particularly in second language acquisition and cross-cultural communication. Misalignment in address norms between Jordanian and English speakers can lead to pragmatic challenges, emphasizing the need for intercultural awareness in language learning. These findings contribute to broader sociolinguistic discussions, particularly regarding linguistic change, social identity, and globalization’s impact on verbal interaction. The study underscores how address terms function as markers of both cultural continuity and adaptation, offering context-specific insights that may contribute to broader understandings of global linguistic trends in address practices. Future research could explore similar transformations in other non-Western languages, further enriching the discourse on language contact and sociolinguistic variation.