Verbal Extensions in Sheng: An Examination of Variation in Form and Function
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Date
2024
Authors
Kariuki, Annah
Gibson, Hannah
Jelpke, Tom
Ochieng, Merceline
Poeta, Teresa
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Linguistics Vanguard
Abstract
This paper investigates verbal extensions in Sheng, a youth language originating in Nairobi, Kenya.
Sheng has received scholarly attention since the 1980s, primarily with a focus on its sociolinguistic traits. Our
study aims to advance the linguistic description of Sheng and its morphosyntax by investigating verbal extensions
in Sheng. Specifically, we look at the causative, applicative, reciprocal, and passive suffixes, as they are applied to
coined and metathesized verbs and verbs which have their origins in Swahili, English, or Gikuyu. We present
examples from speakers in Kibera and Umoja neighbourhoods of Nairobi. We find that, while many of the
extensions can be applied to elicited verbs, such examples were often considered odd by speakers. In some cases,
our consultants suggested alternative strategies, typically employing the use of periphrastic constructions or
different verb forms. The use of verbal extensions sometimes resulted in changes in interpretation, requiring us
to re-consider the function of these extensions in Sheng more broadly.
Description
Article
Keywords
verbal extensions, applicative, causative, passive, reciprocal, youth language
Citation
Kariuki, A., Gibson, H., Jelpke, T., Ochieng, M., & Poeta, T. (2024). Verbal extensions in Sheng: an examination of variation in form and function. Linguistics Vanguard, (0).