The Realization of Kinship Terms in Persian and Filipino

Abstract

Sociolinguistics studies of language forms and functions should be an indispensable part of second/foreign language learning. Family or kinship address terms as an important feature of interface between language and society, can provide valuable sociolinguistic information about the interlocutors and their relationships. In line with the studies of these terms during the past few decades, this paper focuses on collecting and explaining different types of kinship terminology that Persian and Filipino interlocutors use in their conversations. The relevant terms have been collected by observation and interview. The study also highlights the differences between the two languages in using such terms based on social and cultural status. The findings of the study show that Persian is a gender sensitive and a dynamic language while Filipino is a sex-neutral and respect oriented language.