Phonological adaptation of English loanwords in Lukabras

Abstract

Phonological adaption of English loanwords in Lukabras is a study which describes the phonological aspects of English loanwords in Lukabras. Its objectives were: to compare the Lukabras and English phonetic inventories; to describe the phonological processes employed in the adaptation of loanwords in Lukabras and to derive the phonotactic rules governing the adaptation of loanwords in Lukabras. Data was analyzed using the CV (Consonant, Vowel) 3 phonology framework. CV phonology is a universal syllable theory which is vital in the analysis of the re-syllabification processes. Methodology employed descriptive and explanatory approaches. The study was carried out in Kakamega North constituency, South Kabras Location, Shanda Sub location. Purposive sampling was used whereby the key informants were the Lukabras native speakers. Data was collected through questionnaire, informal interviews and discussions with Lukabras native speakers. These discussions and interviews were tape recorded and then transcribed. Data was analyzed qualitatively with descriptions of how English loanwords adapt in Lukabras. Explanations of why the English loanwords had to change their original shape were also given. The study found out that English loanwords adapt in Lukabras by being nativized through phonological processes such as vowel lowering, devoicing of consonants, continuant strengthening, stop weakening,monophthongization of diphthongs, reduction of long vowels and vowel epenthesis. The study recommends further research on: ‘Phonological adaptation of English verbs, adverbs and adjectives in Lukabras’, ‘phonological adaptation of Kiswahili loanwords in Lukabras’, and ‘phonological adaptation of loanwords from other Luhya dialects in Lukabras