The Role of Code-Switching Mechanism in the Change of the Neo-Aramaic Language: A Sociolinguistic Study

Abstract This research paper adopts a sociolinguistic approach to the language change in the Neo-Aramaic language, in general, and particularly the role of code-switching as the initial mechanism of change. The significance of this paper might be due to the lack of research about Neo-Aramaic as a descendent of Aramaic, which is one of the most ancient languages ever existed. This study is a reaction to the problem of the constant language change that is happening in the Neo-Aramaic language affecting its identity through the contact with other languages. The Aim, in this respect, is to investigate the role of code-switching as an agent of language change and evaluating the status of Neo-Aramaic as an endangered language. Therefore, it is hypothesized that code-switching is the first step to borrowing and questions such as how does code-switching lead to language change? and which linguistic categories are being code-switched and hence more likely to be changed? are used to achieve the researchs aims. Data collection is made by using recorded sociolinguistic interviews for 30 native speakers of Neo-Aramaic in a total of 10 hours of speech. Age is the social variable to determine the extent of change by analyzing code-switching occurrences qualitatively and linking them to the socio-historical profile of the chosen area. In a conclusion, code-switching appears to be a significant factor for language change and Neo-Aramaic is rapidly reaching what is called language suicide