The Cognitive Conceptualization of Mutual Influence between Arabic and English in the “World Cup Dictionary in Qatar” by Aḥmad al-Janābī: An Analytical Reading in Light of Cognitive Linguistics

Abstract

The research addresses a central problem concerning the interinfluence of Arabic and English within the “World Cup Dictionary in Qatar” by Aḥmad al-Janābī, which documents sports and cultural terms related to the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar. The research demonstrates how the bilingual nature of the dictionary can be utilized to enhance cultural and sports-related understanding in a global sporting context that brings together diverse nationalities and cultures. It employs a critical discourse analysis approach to examine the structure and content of the dictionary, while identifying the linguistic and cognitive foundations adopted by al-Janābī, such as his treatment of semantic differences and syntactic constructions between the two languages, and his incorporation of Qatari and Arabic terms with authentic cultural connotations. Findings reveal that the dictionary is not merely a translation of terms; rather, it represents a linguistic and cognitive vision that reinforces Arab cultural identity within a global context. It demonstrates the Arabic language’s capacity to absorb contemporary sports and cultural developments through semantic innovation and creative Arabization. Consequently, the research recommends the development of specialized dictionaries in other fields such as science and technology, along with support for research that integrates cognitive linguistics with lexicographic development.