Optimality Theory and Phonology of English Loanwords in Urdu

Abstract

This study aims at investigating phonological adaptations including epenthesis, substitution, retroflexion and deletion of English loanwords in Urdu language utilizing Optimality Theory by Alan Prince and Paul Smolensky. English loanwords are modified to conform to Urdu’s preferred structure. These adaptations are not random but follow predictable patterns that reflect the constraints active in Urdu's phonological system. This study depicted analysis through multiple constraints like ONSET, CODA, IDENT-IO, DEP, MAX, ALVEO. The research revealed that in Urdu markedness constraints outrank faithfulness constraints, leading to outputs that are closer to native form rather than original form.