A Politeness Model Analysis of Sex-Related Euphemisms in Selected Kipsigis Popular Songs of Kenya
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Date
2021
Authors
Kipkirui, Leonard
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
This study examined sex-related euphemisms in Kipsigis popular songs sang by
different artists. The study had three objectives: to identify sex-related euphemistic
words and phrases in selected Kipsigis popular songs, to examine their connotative
meanings and to discuss the influence of gender in the usage of sex-related
euphemisms. The study assumed that there are sex-related euphemistic words and
phrases and their connotations in the Kipsigis popular songs. The researcher
purposively picked 16 songs from Kipsigis popular artists, 30 respondents and five
composers. An interview schedule was used to obtain the relevant information from the
respondents and composers of the songs. To achieve the objectives, the data was
analysed using Brown and Levinson’s (1978) Politeness Theory. Results of the study
indicated that artists avoid embarrassment and possible loss of face in their songs by
using euphemistic words and phrases that mitigate offensive expressions that cause
shame and harm to the artists and listeners of Kipsigis popular songs. It is believed that
the findings of this study would be of great significance in interpreting words and
phrases related to sex used in Kipsigis popular songs.
Description
A Thesis Submitted to the School Of Humanities And Social Sciences in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts (English and Linguistics) of Kenyatta University, October, 2021
Keywords
Politeness Model Analysis, Sex-Related Euphemisms, Selected Kipsigis Popular Songs, Kenya