A Pragmatic Analysis of Applying Violating the Maxims to the Yemeni Dialect

Abstract

The prime aim of this research is to investigate Gricean Theory of Conversational Implicature and its application to the Arabic language. For the purpose of investigating such a theory, semi-structured interviews with 15 Yemeni participants were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated and then interpreted . There were four Ph.D. candidates, four M.A. candidates and seven B.A. candidates. Both a qualitative and a quantitative approach were adopted. The analysis focused on violating the conversational maxims. The findings showed that Gricean Theory of Conversational Implicature can be applied to Arabic language, particularly the Yemeni dialect. In addition, the results revealed that the maxim of Quality was most frequently violated. Then the maxims of Quantity, Relation and Manner respectively.