The Application of Distinctive Feature Theory to Iraqi- Arabic Collequial

Abstract

The present study deals with the consonantal sound system of Iraqi Arabic spoken language in terms of the distinctive features. In fact there are many models within the framework of this theory, we have Jakobson and Halle features, Chomsk and Halle, ladefoged as well. However, this paper will specifically state the consonantal sound system of Iraqi Arabic spoken language in terms of Trubetzkoy's system of features. He puts certain features, these features are oppos, they are bilateral, multi-bilateral oppositions, privative oppositions, gradual oppositions, and equipollent oppositions. Besides, there are many illustrative examples in Arabic an English. The chief goal of this paper is to see the opposite features of the consonantal sounds of Iraqi Arabic spoken language, and to try to see their suitability in terns of Trubetzkoy's model of features. To achieve the aim of the study, it is hypothesized that there are certain feature or a feature that can make a phoneme change the meaning of the minimal units on the one hand. Socio-phonetic or regional variation tend to make the same phoneme pronounced differently under the affection of the variation.