Synchronic Features of Ekegusii Dialects in Kisii County: A Case of Linguistic Variation in Language Contact Situation
| dc.contributor.author | Angwenyi, MokuaVincent | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-01-24T09:45:17Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-01-24T09:45:17Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2024-11 | |
| dc.description | A Research Project Submitted to the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in English and Linguistics, Kenyatta University, November 2024. Supervisor Kenneth Ngure | |
| dc.description.abstract | This study provides a description of the synchronic features of Ekegusii dialects; Rogoro and Maate, a case of linguistic variation at contact situation using a comparative approach. The main objectives of the study was to identify synchronic features that distinguish the dialects, determine their functional load in various domains and examine the perception of the speakers towards their dialects and that of the others. The study was bound to provide useful insights to the language planners and policy makers with respect to the standardization of the language varieties. The focus was on areas perceived to be affected by dialect variation, that is, Bonchari-South Mugirango and Bomachoge-South Mugirango border points and their dialect chains. This study was based on Wave theory by Lyons (2002) which demonstrates that linguistic changes tend to spread from a centre, normally from economic, political or cultural influence to the area with no or little influence in those aspects. This study employed purposive sampling because the study involved respondents with desired characteristics. As well, stratified sampling was factored in since data was obtained from distinct sections within the area of study. Questionnaires, wordlists, interviews and participant observation, at some point, were the major tools used to collect data in this study. Data sources were restricted to the domains of education, religion, mass media, governance and business. The data collected was analysed and presented using coding system, frequency distribution tables and charts. The findings of this study revealed that the two Ekegusii dialects are distinct in their linguistic levels, thus achieving the first objective of this study, that Rogoro dialect is famous and enjoys institutional support thus assigned a higher functional load across various domains, hence fulfilling the second objective and that there is disparity in the perception of the dialects by speakers with Rogoro dialect speakers favourably treated as opposed to Maate dialect speakers who feel that they are linguistically discriminated; consequently, obtaining the third objective of this study. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/29464 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Kenyatta University | |
| dc.title | Synchronic Features of Ekegusii Dialects in Kisii County: A Case of Linguistic Variation in Language Contact Situation | |
| dc.type | Thesis |