Exploring Vowel Epenthesis in Monosyllabic Words: A Perspective from Optimality Theory on Yemeni Hijazi, and Quranic Arabic

This study examines vowel epenthesis (VE) in monosyllabic words in Quranic Arabic (QA), Yemeni Dialects (YD), and Hijazi Dialects (HD) using Optimality Theory (OT). Over 150 monosyllabic words from Quranic texts were analyzed to compare vowel epenthesis patterns. Findings reveal that Quranic Arabic and Yemeni Dialects largely resist vowel epenthesis, maintaining original consonant clusters, though Quranic Arabic may permit it in limited contexts. Yemeni Dialects strictly avoid vowel epenthesis, even when Quranic Arabic allows it sparingly. In contrast, Hijazi Dialects frequently employ vowel epenthesis, inserting [i], [a], or [u] depending on vowel harmony and phonological conditions, though some words remain without epenthesis. Vowel Epenthesis is particularly notable in CVCC structures within Hijazi Dialects. The study highlights dialectal variation in epenthesis tolerance, influenced by historical, sociolinguistic, and phonological factors. These findings contribute to understanding phonological constraints in Arabic and the interplay of linguistic forces shaping dialectal differences.