Verbal extensions in Sheng: an examination of variation in form and function

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Main author: Kariuki, Annah
Other authors: Gibson, Hannah
Jelpke, Tom
Ochieng, Merceline
Poeta, Teresa
Format: Journal Article           
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id eprints-42147
recordtype eprints
institution SOAS, University of London
collection SOAS Research Online
language English
language_search English
description 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.
format Journal Article
author Kariuki, Annah
author_facet Kariuki, Annah
Gibson, Hannah
Jelpke, Tom
Ochieng, Merceline
Poeta, Teresa
authorStr Kariuki, Annah
author_letter Kariuki, Annah
author2 Gibson, Hannah
Jelpke, Tom
Ochieng, Merceline
Poeta, Teresa
author2Str Gibson, Hannah
Jelpke, Tom
Ochieng, Merceline
Poeta, Teresa
title Verbal extensions in Sheng: an examination of variation in form and function
publisher De Gruyter
publishDate 2024
url https://eprints.soas.ac.uk/42147/

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