Uzbek Spelling Rules: History, Principles, and Modern Applications

This study examines the spelling rules of the Uzbek language, focusing on their historical development, fundamental principles, and contemporary applications. The research traces the evolution of Uzbek spelling from the pre-Soviet era to modern reforms, analyzing key transitions from the Latin alphabet to Cyrillic and back to Latin. Despite significant advancements, challenges persist in standardizing spelling rules, particularly in integrating foreign terms and simplifying complex phonetic representations. The study identifies gaps in the literature regarding the impact of recent reforms and the practical difficulties of implementing new orthographic standards. A qualitative research approach was employed, involving a comparative analysis of historical documents, linguistic policies, and contemporary usage patterns. Findings highlight inconsistencies in the application of spelling rules, issues in phonetic and morphological adaptations, and challenges faced by educators and learners. The results suggest that while the transition to the Latin alphabet enhances accessibility and international alignment, unresolved complexities in diacritical marks and compound word structures hinder uniform adoption. The study implies the necessity of continued linguistic research and policy adjustments to refine Uzbek orthography. These findings are particularly relevant for educators, linguists, and policymakers aimingto develop effective language instruction methods and orthographic guidelines.