A systematic description of imbrication in Nyakyusa
Loading...
Date
2023
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of the Institute of Kiswahili Studies University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This paper offers a systematic description of imbrication in Nyakyusa
(M31). The review of the literature indicates that, in Nyakyusa,
imbrication, a phonological change involving the opaque difference
between the input and output forms in the -ile suffix, has not been
systematically described. Hence, the paper offers this description by
identifying triggering conditions and reconstructing the phonological
processes shaping imbrication. Data for this paper were collected in
Kyela district through a review of written texts, narrative stories,
observation and interviews. The findings indicate that the syllable
structure of the verb is the main determinant of imbrication in Nyakyusa.
Quite obviously, the process of imbrication involves the deletion of the
consonant in the -ile, followed by metathesis whereby the last consonant
of the stem fills the empty slot caused by the deletion of [l]. Then, various
adjustments that follow, i.e., vowel coalescence, vowel deletion, vowel
rising, leftward spread of vowel, and vowel lengthening, are meant to
resolve hiatus. The paper concludes that, based on the review of
literature, although imbrication is common in some Bantu languages, we
noted some conditions and phonological processes shaping imbrication to
be language specific. In this view, this paper recommends a systematic
comparative description of imbrication in other Bantu languages
Description
Keywords
Imbrication, Engling language, Bantu language, Systematic description-imbrication, Nyakyusa