Abstract:
Previous studies have been inconsistent in describing tense and/or aspect (T/A) systems in Luguru
language and do not satisfactorily explain the differences of the morphological norms that mark T/A in
the language. This study aims to describe the T/A system of Luguru as it is used in the verb system,
particularly in the Morogoro Region of Tanzania. The study applied the Linear Approach in the analysis
of T/A. In this approach, tenses are considered as expression of the relationship between speech time
and another interval of interest called reference time and event time and Also tense meaning is represented
as a sequence of the three time points namely; past, present and future time. Group discussions,
questionnaire and interview were employed to collect primary data, from adult native speakers of
the language in Matombo and Mgeta wards of Morogoro Rural District. The tools were employed because
they correspond to the linear approach and that they are benched in the attitude of the language
users. Data were analyzed by the identification of various T/A formatives so as to describe the distinction
between them and the classification of morphological forms of tense and aspect in Luguru constructions
which was done using linear approach. The study revealed four tense categories marked in
the verbal morphology (i.e. remote past, recent past, present and future tenses) and four aspect categories,
namely habitual, progressive, perfect and persistent. However, some T/A formatives depend on
the three auxiliaries tsaa, maa and -gh’ali to complete their meaning. The study also reveals the prevalence
of the difference between absolute and relative perfect marking and a high degree of interaction
between tense and aspect.
