A Morpho-Semantic Analysis of Verbal Extension on Fulfulde Negation in Sardauna and Gashaka Local Government Areas of Taraba State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64137/31078729/IJLLH-V1I2P104Keywords:
Morpho-semantics, Verbal extensions, Negation, Variation, Fulfulde, Language preservationAbstract
This study investigates the morpho-semantic features of verbal extensions on negation in Fulfulde, focusing on varieties spoken in Sardauna and Gashaka Local Government Areas of Taraba State, Nigeria. It examines the similarities and differences in negation patterns between these varieties and standard Fulfulde, and analyses how verbal extensions influence meaning in communication. The study is grounded in Aronoff’s Morphological Theory and explores the interaction between morphological structures and semantic interpretation in negative constructions. A descriptive research design with a qualitative approach is employed, and data are collected through direct observation and native speaker intuitions. The research focuses on verbs ending in -ugo and -aago, which typically form negative markers with suffixes -ataa/-aayii and -ataako/-aakii, respectively. Findings reveal that verbs ending in -ugo maintain morphological consistency and semantic clarity across the studied varieties and the standard language. In contrast, verbs ending in -aago exhibit frequent misapplication of negative markers among Sardauna and Gashaka speakers, leading to morphological inaccuracies and potential semantic ambiguity. These patterns indicate emerging regional influences and instances of language change within Fulfulde verbal morphology. Overall, the study demonstrates that while Fulfulde verbal extension patterns are largely stable, localized variations highlight areas for language standardization and pedagogical focus. The results have implications for linguistics, language preservation, and the development of effective language education strategies in multilingual communities where Fulfulde functions as a lingua franca
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