Arabs approach their language as a“social conduit in which emotional resonance is
stressed,”which contrasts with the Western view that language is a means of transferring
information.^54 Because of this orientation the Arab language contains a rich vocabulary
and well-rounded, complex phrases that permit educated and illiterate alike to have a
strong mastery of their language. Words are often used for their own sake rather than
for what they are understood to mean. This creates a situation where assertion, repeti-
tion, and exaggeration are used with regularity. It also means that whereas a U.S.
American can express an idea in ten words, the Arabic speaker may use one hundred.
In Chapter 3 we indicated that Arab societies are characterized by the cultural
values of collectivism, hierarchy, and a present orientation, which are mirrored in
how Arabic is used. As with nearly every collective society, social harmony among
in-group members is valued among Arabs, who rely on indirect, ambiguous statements
to lessen the potential for loss of face during interactions.^55 While employing indi-
rectness to ensure smooth relations, Arabs will often appeal to the listener’s emotions.
The noisy, animated speech often associated with the Arab communication style is
normally limited to interactions with social peers. When engaging elders or superiors,
“polite deference is required,”^56 which demonstrates the value placed on hierarchy.
Arabs also tend to focus more on the present and consider future events with some
degree of incertitude. This attitude is evident in the frequent use ofinshallah(if God
wills) when discussing future events. Additionally, when connected to some action,
the phrase can be used to indicate“yes”but at an unspecified future time,“no”in
order to avoid personal responsibility, or an indirect“never.”^57German
The German people represent yet another culture that takes great pride in its lan-
guage. Historically, you will find that many of the world’s great achievements
were first conceived and delivered in the German language. Be it music, opera,Arabs employ
language in a
dynamic, direct
fashion that is often
elaborate and forceful.
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