The issue of Correctness of Diacritics in the Sindhi Primer Book

Abstract

In Arabic-Sindhi orthography, the application of diacritical marks (اعراب) is a very difficult task. This study argues that accurate diacritization depends fundamentally on a precise understanding of syllable boundaries. To establish these boundaries, three factors are essential: the consonant-vowel structure, the arrangement of consonant clusters, and the nature of word-final vowels. By reflecting on these three points, a study was conducted on the diacritics given in a Sindhi children’s book, in which several mistakes were noted. Regarding diacritics, the major gaps were observed in the book, like the diacritics of the digraph consonant sounds ‘جهہ’ and ‘گهہ’ are not consistent. The additional digraph “ڙهہ” also shows inconsistency in diacritics. In consonant clusters combined with “ي” the first consonant is shown with diacritic mark, instead of vowels. In imperative verbs (fi‘l amr), the final diacritic has not been carefully applied. In plural forms, the final “ن” has been marked with diacritic mark, whereas it should be vowels. The ‘clandestine ـه’ (مختفي ه) functions in diacritics, but its application is inconsistent. Additionally, the study highlights neglect in the orthography of singular masculine demonstrative pronouns. By referencing established linguistic standards, this paper provides a principled framework for the correct application of diacritics in Sindhi text.