Gender Distinction in Deictic Systems in Arabic and the Semitic Languages: A Comparative Analysis within Structural and Functional Linguistics

Abstract

This study examines gender distinction in demonstrative elements across Arabic and other Semitic languages, including Akkadian, Aramaic, Hebrew, Syriac, Ugaritic, Mandaic, Old South Arabian, and Classical Arabic. Within the framework of structural and functional approaches.  It provides a comparative linguistic analysis of the morphological structure and semantic functions of these demonstratives, the research focuses on the structural and semantic comparison of these elements, Findings indicate a shared Semitic origin for demonstratives, reflected in consistent gender marking patterns, while phonological, morphological, and syntactic differences reflect historical and dialectal development. The combination of structural and functional analyses provides a comprehensive understanding of both form and meaning, highlighting the role of demonstratives in literary and religious texts.