Exploring Implicit Meanings in Mosuli Arabic Proverbs: A Relevance Theory Approach

Understanding the proverbs’ relevance and the cognitive processes involved in their interpretation by the reader/hearer requires investigating beyond the literal meaning. This study examines the interpretation of culturally bounded Mosuli Arabic proverbs through the lens of Sperber and Wilson’s (2002) Relevance Theory. The research addresses a critical gap in understanding how implicit meanings in proverbs are processed by different generations within their cultural framework. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative analysis of 15 selected proverbs— sourced from native speakers and historical texts—with quantitative data from a 10-point survey administered to two generational groups: elderly (n=10) and young (n=10) native Mosuli Arabic speakers. Findings reveal a clear generational divide. Elderly participants demonstrated strong cultural affinity for proverbs, valuing their metaphorical depth and historical significance. In contrast, younger participants favored linguistically simple, indicating a shift toward pragmatic communication and reduced tolerance for abstract or culturally embedded expressions. Cognitive engagement also varied significantly: while elders appreciated proverbs’ reflective wisdom, youth often dismissed them as outdated or irrelevant, underscoring a decline in traditional knowledge transmission.