The major phonological processes of Kindia and Kigichungu dialects of Gikuyu: a comparative survey

Abstract

This study is an attempt to define and distinguish Kigichugu and Kindia dialects using synchronic data. It comes up with phonological correspondences between the two dialects. This comparison is done using the via rules stipulated by the Natural Generative Phonology theory (Hooper 1976).

In chapter one, background information on the language situation in Kirinyaga district where the two dialects are spoken, is provided. The methodological approach, goals and assumptions of this study are also outlined here.

The second chapter illustrates the phonemic inventories of the two dialects with the intention of comparing them. This chapter gives an introduction of the phonology of the two dialects and their phonemic constraints. The chapter therefore, offers a basis for description in the two chapters that follow. In the third chapter, the vowel processes, which distinguish the two dialects, are discussed. Here, the vowels that differ in the two dialects are shown, and thus the sound correspondences. The fourth chapter is concerned with consonant processes, which distinguish the dialects. These vowel and consonant processes are seen to account for the differences manifested in dialects.

The last chapter sums up the findings of this study by showing the key areas in which the two dialects differ. It also sheds light on areas requiring further research.