Arabic between reality and ideology

<jats:p>Most studies on variation in spoken Arabic assume the involvement of Classical Arabic (the standard variety), and many interpret variation in terms of approximation to this variety. In many cases, this assumption has led to fundamental and persistent misunderstanding of the true situation. A more careful look at empirical data reveals that variation and change in spoken Arabic involves interplay between local varieties and emerging regional standards independently of Classical Arabic. The article identifies a number of problems which stem from a widespread confusion of the esteem of Classical Arabic with its status as a standard language.</jats:p>