The Linguistic Foundations of Neologism Formation in Arabic Terminology

Abstract

Arabic, a language with a rich morphological system and a long history of language planning, has developed multiple strategies for coining new terminology to accommodate evolving needs. This article provides a comprehensive examination of the linguistic foundations of Arabic neologism formation, spanning from classical heritage to modern innovations. It discusses the historical context and motivations behind coinage of new terms – from the Abbasid-era translation movement to the 19th–20th century renaissance (Nahḍa) – and analyzes the major word-formation methods employed in Arabic. These methods include derivation (al-ishtiqāq), arabization (at-taʿrīb or borrowing foreign words), compounding/blending (an-naḥt), metaphorical extension (al-majāz), and loan translation (calquing). Both classical and modern perspectives are considered, with particular attention to the influence of Arabic language academies in standardizing and promoting new terms. Modern scientific and technological advancements have continually driven the creation of neologisms, as Arabic speakers and institutions strive to balance linguistic authenticity with effective communication. The article is structured as a peer-reviewed academic paper, with sections for literature review of prior scholarship, methodology of analysis, detailed discussion of each word-formation process with examples, and a conclusion that reflects on the success and challenges of Arabic neologism development. Authoritative sources in both Arabic and English are cited to support the analysis, highlighting how Arabic’s linguistic creativity and planning institutions together address the challenges of an ever-expanding lexicon.