Modern Standard Arabic in Algerian Newspapers: Shuruq and El Khabar

Abstract

The present research work addresses the reality of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) in the Algerian newspaper. Its objective’s emphasis is on benefits and drawbacks that journalistic texts bring about to this language which remains a fundamental marker of Arabs and Algerians’ identity and position in the world. The work’s initial hypothesis suggests that in spite of the post-independence journalists’ encouraging contribution to the policy of Arabisation, and despite their nationalist endeavour to spread MSA’s correct use, the linguistic interests of present-day journalists are narrow and show secondary if compared to other economic and socio-political ambitions. Nonetheless, it lies required to detect ways through which newspaper language becomes a reliable enhancement to the advance and prosperity of MSA in Algeria and the Arab world. The hypothesis is proved valid, considering the examined situation of MSA in the samples of Echorouk and El Khabar daily newspapers.