USING IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS IN TEACHING THE ARABIC LANGUAGE
Keywords:
Keywords: Arabic language teaching, idiomatic expressions, figurative language, formulaic sequences, L2 pedagogy, cultural competence, vocabulary acquisition, pragmatic competence, cognitive linguisticsAbstract
Abstract: Idiomatic expressions represent an essential component of natural linguistic competence, yet they remain one of the most challenging elements for learners of Arabic as a second or foreign language. Because idioms often carry figurative, culturally embedded meanings, traditional vocabulary-based instruction is insufficient for full comprehension. This article investigates the role of idiomatic expressions in the teaching of Arabic, reviews relevant linguistic and pedagogical theories, and synthesizes empirical findings on idiom instruction. Results indicate that explicit teaching of idioms improves learners’ communicative competence, cultural understanding, and pragmatic awareness. The paper concludes by recommending instructional strategies for integrating idioms systematically into Arabic language curricula.
