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Maina M wahome

Universitas Diponegoro, Magister linguistik, Alumnus

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Maina Wahome is a Linguistics researcher at Diponegoro University, Semarang. Indonesia
Supervisors: Prof. Dr. Agus Subiyanto
Phone: +6282131678113
Address: Rusunawa Universitas Diponegoro Gedung B
Jalan Prof Sudharto, Tembalang
Block B No. 36 Tembalang-Kota
Semarang, Jawa Tengah

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Sigmund Freud University

NPU Dragomanov

Elżbieta Górska

University of Warsaw

Universiti Sains Malaysia

mahshid alvandi

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Papers by Maina M wahome

Decoding embodied metaphors in Ja Loka's X Discourse: An embodied cognition analysis

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies , 2025

The X platform began with microblogging but now diversifies to provide more financial and communi... more The X platform began with microblogging but now diversifies to provide more financial and communication-related services. From Ja Loka's discourse on X, the study analyzes how embodied metaphors, which brainstorm the connection between the concrete and the abstract domains are manifested in the digital sphere. This research analyzes the COGNITIVE PROCESSES that underlie the construction and understanding of the embodied metaphors in Ja Loka's discourse in the X platform. The present study is based on image schemas as the primary COGNITIVE PROCESSES and examines how Ja Loka conveys abstract concepts, emotions, and values using embodied metaphors. The present study employs a comprehensive descriptive qualitative method that cautiously looks into the COGNITIVE PROCESSES of metaphorical language within the X-platform. The data used to interpret the metaphorical discourse of Ja Loka in the X platform is collected using a web scraping tool called Octoparse. This allowed examining what is entailed in decoding embodied metaphors using image schemas within embodied cognition. The empirical findings present a vast array of embodied metaphors, and the cognitive foundation is varied in terms of image schemas used such as TRANSACTIONAL OBJECTIFICATION, SPATIAL REPRESENTATION, and CONTAINER. The analyzed data substantiate that metaphorical semiosis itself is a multifaceted phenomenon; the structures that are employed require state-of-the-art COGNITIVE PROCESSES to capture all the underlying components of metaphorical meaning-making.

The Structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase Focusing on Modifiers: An X-bar Theory Perspective

PAROLE: Journal of Linguistics and Education , 2024

This research article investigates the structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase (DP) from an X-b... more This research article investigates the structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase (DP) from an X-bar theory perspective, with a focus on the modifiers of the DP. Kikuyu is a Bantu language spoken by approximately 6.6 million people in Kenya, with a highly agglutinative S-V-O structure. However, limited studies have been conducted on the structure of the Kikuyu DP, which makes this study significant in providing valuable information for researchers and speakers of the language. The study aims to determine the structure of the Kikuyu DP by analyzing the Kikuyu determiners or modifiers of the noun. In the context of constituent structures, the X-bar theory is employed to depict the varied positions of modifiers within the Determiner Phrase (DP), as evidenced by the phrase structure trees. The research utilizes a descriptive-qualitative method of data analysis, with data collected from resourceful informants and selected Kikuyu texts. The self-introspection method is used, as the researcher is a native speaker of the Kikuyu language. The findings of the study reveal that Kikuyu determiners can be both pre-nominal and post-nominal, with some having the ability to be pre-posed and post-posed like demonstratives. This study contributes to the understanding of the Kikuyu language structure and provides insights for future research.

Exploring Heaton’s testing score as a diagnostic tool: A language testing study on English language learners

Journal of languages, linguistics and literary studies, Nov 14, 2023

This study investigates the utility of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument ... more This study investigates the utility of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for English language learners. Focusing on 20 grade 10 English language learners at Amaano Boarding School in Hargeisa, Somaliland, our research employed a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our research arsenal encompassed Heaton&#39;s Testing Score, a comprehensive questionnaire, and a rigorous focus group interview. The primary aim was to bridge an existing lacuna in the literature regarding the practical application of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score in pinpointing areas of improvement for English language learners. Our findings unearthed distinct challenges that students grapple with, particularly in the domains of reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. These issues were discerned through a meticulous analysis of English test questions. Additionally, our questionnaire and focus group interview unveiled insightful perspectives on the root causes, including the limited exposure to English beyond the classroom setting. This nuanced comprehension of learners&#39; impediments adds substantial value to the field. Our results underscore the pivotal role of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a valuable diagnostic tool, empowering educators and researchers to identify precise areas requiring focused assistance for English language learners. This emphasizes the significance of tailored interventions in ameliorating the learning experience. The study bears implications for educators, policy-makers, and curriculum developers, advocating for a more effective paradigm in language testing and evaluation. In conclusion, this research firmly underscores Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as an indispensable diagnostic instrument for language testing, with far-reaching ramifications for the enhancement of English language learners.

Semantic Analysis of Swahili Action Verb “To cut”: A Natural Semantic Metalanguage Approach

Indian journal of languages and linguistics, Dec 28, 2023

This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natu... more This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) theory. The study also seeks to identify other Swahili verbs that share similar semantic correlations. No research has been conducted on the verb "to cut" using the NSM model in Swahili. Therefore, this research is crucial in bridging the gap in the existing literature. Swahili holds a significant position as one of the official languages in Kenya, alongside English, making it prevalent in the region. To achieve the research objectives, a qualitative-descriptive research design methodology was employed. Native Swahili speakers were involved in the study, and selected texts were utilized as data sources. Through self-examination and careful analysis, a total of 22 Swahili verbs were identified to have comparable semantic correlates to the verb "to cut." These verbs include kata, tahirisha, pogoa, tema, katisha, nyofoa, chuna, vunja, kuhasiwa, tenganisha, nyoa, keketa, chanja, punguza, fyeka, pasua, chana, chinja, katika, gawanya, chomoa, and ng'oa. The findings of this study reveal that the Swahili word for "cutting" is derived from the original meaning of "doing" or "happening." In this context, X represents the agent, Y represents the patient, and Z represents the instrument used in the action of cutting. By exploring the semantic relationships of the verb "to cut" and identifying other verbs that share similar patterns, this research sheds light on the versatility and richness of the Swahili language verbs.

Use of Conceptual Metaphors in Miguna Miguna's Political Commentaries on Facebook in Kenya: A Conceptual Metaphor Perspective

PAROLE Journal of Linguistics and Education, 2023

This paper examines Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook, which have become a potent force... more This paper examines Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook, which have become a potent force in Kenya's socio-political discourse. Known for his incisive and metaphor-laden commentaries, Miguna, popularly called "Double M", has sparked a surge in online political discussions, evoking both admiration and ire from the public. However, his style has also raised concerns about slander and libel in pursuing justice, secularism, and democracy. The gap in this study lies in the limited understanding of how conceptual metaphors, as utilized in Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook in Kenya, impact power structures, government policies, and communication practices. The study uses the Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) by (Lakoff and Johnson, 1980) and the Deconstruction Theory (Derrida, 1967) to analyze the data collected from Miguna's Facebook page using a web scrapping tool, Octoparse. The Metaphor Identification Procedure Vrije Universiteit (MIPVU) was utilized to identify the conceptual metaphors in Miguna's commentaries. The analysis revealed seven metaphorical conceptualizations of politicians: despots, conmen and cartels, orphans and cows, corruption monsters, socialite bimbos, and human rights violators, with politicians as the source domains and despots, conmen and cartels, orphans and cows, corruption monsters, socialite bimbos, and human rights violators as the target domains. This study shows how metaphors contribute to political commentary, their impact on power structures, and their relevance in the digital age, specifically in Kenya. The findings have broader implications for freedom of speech, defamation, and responsible communication, guiding policymakers, educators, and media practitioners.

Semantic Analysis of Swahili Action Verb "To Cut" A Natural Metalanguage Approach

Indian Journal of Language and Linguistics, 2023

This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natu... more This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) theory. The study also seeks to identify other Swahili verbs that share similar semantic correlations. No research has been conducted on the verb "to cut" using the NSM model in Swahili. Therefore, this research is crucial in bridging the gap in the existing literature. Swahili holds a significant position as one of the official languages in Kenya, alongside English, making it prevalent in the region. To achieve the research objectives, a qualitative-descriptive research design methodology was employed. Native Swahili speakers were involved in the study, and selected texts were utilized as data sources. Through self-examination and careful analysis, a total of 22 Swahili verbs were identified to have comparable semantic correlates to the verb "to cut." These verbs include kata, tahirisha, pogoa, tema, katisha, nyofoa, chuna, vunja, kuhasiwa, tenganisha, nyoa, keketa, chanja, punguza, fyeka, pasua, chana, chinja, katika, gawanya, chomoa, and ng'oa. The findings of this study reveal that the Swahili word for "cutting" is derived from the original meaning of "doing" or "happening." In this context, X represents the agent, Y represents the patient, and Z represents the instrument used in the action of cutting. By exploring the semantic relationships of the verb "to cut" and identifying other verbs that share similar patterns, this research sheds light on the versatility and richness of the Swahili language verbs.

A Commentary on the novella, The Immigrant with a Difference by Ndaba Sibanda

Journal of Artistic Creation and Literary Research, 2023

The commentary embarks on an expedition through Ndaba Sibanda's novella, "The Immigrant with A Di... more The commentary embarks on an expedition through Ndaba Sibanda's novella, "The Immigrant with A Difference," unearthing its core facets while navigating a literary landscape adorned with many stylistic devices. With the precision of a surgeon's scalpel, we dissect this literary gem under the scrutiny of various thematic lenses that cast a spell over the reader, inviting a kaleidoscope of interpretations. Metaphors and Similes dance in the mind as we scrutinize the appropriateness of the book's title. Like a riddle hidden in plain sight, it unfurls both its denotative and connotative dimensions. This title does not merely suggest immigration but metamorphoses into a captivating figure, the Goblin, like a beguiling mirage on a distant horizon, transcending formal definitions, and echoing with emotional resonance. As we journey further, we grapple with the novella's central thesis and major argument, as rich as a treasure chest bursting with gems. The author's stance on the utilization of supernatural entities, akin to goblins, for the pursuit of wealth and pride, is akin to a tempestuous storm in a teacup. This narrative condemns such practices with the fervor of a firebrand preacher, denouncing them as morally wrong. The potential dangers lurking in these arcane pursuits are elucidated with a sense of foreboding, supported by chilling anecdotes that paint a landscape of goblins terrorizing communities in Southern African villages. The commentary draws us into a flashback, a portal into a world where myth and reality converge, much like the past intersecting with the present. The narrative takes us on a journey through opulence and pomposity, love and authority, greed and moral decadence, and social stratification, all intertwined like the threads of a complex tapestry. In the final lines, the commentary leaves us with a lasting impression of "The Immigrant with A Difference." It's not just a novella; it's a mirror reflecting the intricate web of human desires and the choices we make. It's a reminder that, in the end, we are all immigrants in this world, seeking our own unique differences.

Exploring Heaton's testing score as a diagnostic tool: A language testing study on English language learners

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies, 2023

This study investigates the utility of Heaton's Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for Engl... more This study investigates the utility of Heaton's Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for English language learners. Focusing on 20 grade 10 English language learners at Amaano Boarding School in Hargeisa, Somaliland, our research employed a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our research arsenal encompassed Heaton's Testing Score, a comprehensive questionnaire, and a rigorous focus group interview. The primary aim was to bridge an existing lacuna in the literature regarding the practical application of Heaton's Testing Score in pinpointing areas of improvement for English language learners. Our findings unearthed distinct challenges that students grapple with, particularly in the domains of reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. These issues were discerned through a meticulous analysis of English test questions. Additionally, our questionnaire and focus group interview unveiled insightful perspectives on the root causes, including the limited exposure to English beyond the classroom setting. This nuanced comprehension of learners' impediments adds substantial value to the field. Our results underscore the pivotal role of Heaton's Testing Score as a valuable diagnostic tool, empowering educators and researchers to identify precise areas requiring focused assistance for English language learners. This emphasizes the significance of tailored interventions in ameliorating the learning experience. The study bears implications for educators, policy-makers, and curriculum developers, advocating for a more effective paradigm in language testing and evaluation. In conclusion, this research firmly underscores Heaton's Testing Score as an indispensable diagnostic instrument for language testing, with far-reaching ramifications for the enhancement of English language learners.

An analysis of Swahili verbal inflection and derivational morphemes: An item and arrangement approach

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies, 2023

This research paper investigates the affixation and derivation processes in Swahili, a highly inf... more This research paper investigates the affixation and derivation processes in Swahili, a highly inflective and agglutinative language spoken in East Africa. Swahili defaults to SVO but allows for VSO or SOV word orders. The study's primary objective is to understand how Swahili words are inflected or derived, and the function of affixation. The research aims to enhance our understanding of the language's morphology and contribute to language learning and teaching methodologies. The study uses a descriptive-qualitative approach, collecting data from the Swahili dictionary, native Swahili speakers, and other relevant resources. Eight knowledgeable informants, native speakers of Swahili from Tanzania and Kenya, provide valuable insights. The researcher, who is also a native Swahili speaker, guides the data collection process. The research findings reveal that Swahili words exhibit affixation in the form of prefixes, infixes, suffixes, and circumfixes. The study also discovered that the key to successful Swahili derivation lies in utilizing stem words to create new words with distinct meanings or contexts from the same word class. Additionally, derivative morphemes were discovered as a result of the affixation process. In conclusion, the research contributes to our understanding of Swahili's morphology, particularly its affixation and derivation processes. The use of inflectional and derivational morphemes allows Swahili speakers to express complex thoughts and convey subtle nuances, making the language a rich and versatile means of communication and cultural expression. This research has implications for language learning and teaching, particularly for those interested in exploring Swahili word morphology.

Phonological Processes of the Kikuyu Dialectical Words: A Distinctive Features Approach

International Journal of Innovative Research and Development, 2023

Kikuyu language is a highly agglutinative language with an S-V-O sentence structure. This study a... more Kikuyu language is a highly agglutinative language with an S-V-O sentence structure. This study aims to find out the phonological processes of the Kikuyu dialectical words and determine the phonological rules. A limited number of studies have been done in the Kikuyu language concerning the phonological processes. Therefore, this study is justifiable because it will not only give more lexical units which are subject to phonological processes in the Kikuyu language, which may be inadequate in the previous studies but also create awareness among the scholars of the
various Kikuyu lexicons which undergo the phonological processes. The data for analysis is presented using phonetic transcription, and it was collected from the native, resourceful speakers of the Kikuyu language and from selected Kikuyu texts like Phonetics and Tonal Systems of Kikuyu (Lilias Armstrong, 2017) and Modern Gikuyu Dictionary: Gikuyu-English, English-Gikuyu (Kasahorow, 2014). The Distinctive Features theory is used in the phonological analysis of the data. The results of the study showed that different Kikuyu words undergo phonological processes evident in this study, like assimilation, consonant strengthening, glide formation, nasal coalescence, consonant coalescence, insertion, and vowel deletion.

Decoding embodied metaphors in Ja Loka's X Discourse: An embodied cognition analysis

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies , 2025

The X platform began with microblogging but now diversifies to provide more financial and communi... more The X platform began with microblogging but now diversifies to provide more financial and communication-related services. From Ja Loka's discourse on X, the study analyzes how embodied metaphors, which brainstorm the connection between the concrete and the abstract domains are manifested in the digital sphere. This research analyzes the COGNITIVE PROCESSES that underlie the construction and understanding of the embodied metaphors in Ja Loka's discourse in the X platform. The present study is based on image schemas as the primary COGNITIVE PROCESSES and examines how Ja Loka conveys abstract concepts, emotions, and values using embodied metaphors. The present study employs a comprehensive descriptive qualitative method that cautiously looks into the COGNITIVE PROCESSES of metaphorical language within the X-platform. The data used to interpret the metaphorical discourse of Ja Loka in the X platform is collected using a web scraping tool called Octoparse. This allowed examining what is entailed in decoding embodied metaphors using image schemas within embodied cognition. The empirical findings present a vast array of embodied metaphors, and the cognitive foundation is varied in terms of image schemas used such as TRANSACTIONAL OBJECTIFICATION, SPATIAL REPRESENTATION, and CONTAINER. The analyzed data substantiate that metaphorical semiosis itself is a multifaceted phenomenon; the structures that are employed require state-of-the-art COGNITIVE PROCESSES to capture all the underlying components of metaphorical meaning-making.

The Structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase Focusing on Modifiers: An X-bar Theory Perspective

PAROLE: Journal of Linguistics and Education , 2024

This research article investigates the structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase (DP) from an X-b... more This research article investigates the structure of the Kikuyu Determiner Phrase (DP) from an X-bar theory perspective, with a focus on the modifiers of the DP. Kikuyu is a Bantu language spoken by approximately 6.6 million people in Kenya, with a highly agglutinative S-V-O structure. However, limited studies have been conducted on the structure of the Kikuyu DP, which makes this study significant in providing valuable information for researchers and speakers of the language. The study aims to determine the structure of the Kikuyu DP by analyzing the Kikuyu determiners or modifiers of the noun. In the context of constituent structures, the X-bar theory is employed to depict the varied positions of modifiers within the Determiner Phrase (DP), as evidenced by the phrase structure trees. The research utilizes a descriptive-qualitative method of data analysis, with data collected from resourceful informants and selected Kikuyu texts. The self-introspection method is used, as the researcher is a native speaker of the Kikuyu language. The findings of the study reveal that Kikuyu determiners can be both pre-nominal and post-nominal, with some having the ability to be pre-posed and post-posed like demonstratives. This study contributes to the understanding of the Kikuyu language structure and provides insights for future research.

Exploring Heaton’s testing score as a diagnostic tool: A language testing study on English language learners

Journal of languages, linguistics and literary studies, Nov 14, 2023

This study investigates the utility of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument ... more This study investigates the utility of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for English language learners. Focusing on 20 grade 10 English language learners at Amaano Boarding School in Hargeisa, Somaliland, our research employed a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our research arsenal encompassed Heaton&#39;s Testing Score, a comprehensive questionnaire, and a rigorous focus group interview. The primary aim was to bridge an existing lacuna in the literature regarding the practical application of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score in pinpointing areas of improvement for English language learners. Our findings unearthed distinct challenges that students grapple with, particularly in the domains of reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. These issues were discerned through a meticulous analysis of English test questions. Additionally, our questionnaire and focus group interview unveiled insightful perspectives on the root causes, including the limited exposure to English beyond the classroom setting. This nuanced comprehension of learners&#39; impediments adds substantial value to the field. Our results underscore the pivotal role of Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as a valuable diagnostic tool, empowering educators and researchers to identify precise areas requiring focused assistance for English language learners. This emphasizes the significance of tailored interventions in ameliorating the learning experience. The study bears implications for educators, policy-makers, and curriculum developers, advocating for a more effective paradigm in language testing and evaluation. In conclusion, this research firmly underscores Heaton&#39;s Testing Score as an indispensable diagnostic instrument for language testing, with far-reaching ramifications for the enhancement of English language learners.

Semantic Analysis of Swahili Action Verb “To cut”: A Natural Semantic Metalanguage Approach

Indian journal of languages and linguistics, Dec 28, 2023

This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natu... more This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) theory. The study also seeks to identify other Swahili verbs that share similar semantic correlations. No research has been conducted on the verb "to cut" using the NSM model in Swahili. Therefore, this research is crucial in bridging the gap in the existing literature. Swahili holds a significant position as one of the official languages in Kenya, alongside English, making it prevalent in the region. To achieve the research objectives, a qualitative-descriptive research design methodology was employed. Native Swahili speakers were involved in the study, and selected texts were utilized as data sources. Through self-examination and careful analysis, a total of 22 Swahili verbs were identified to have comparable semantic correlates to the verb "to cut." These verbs include kata, tahirisha, pogoa, tema, katisha, nyofoa, chuna, vunja, kuhasiwa, tenganisha, nyoa, keketa, chanja, punguza, fyeka, pasua, chana, chinja, katika, gawanya, chomoa, and ng'oa. The findings of this study reveal that the Swahili word for "cutting" is derived from the original meaning of "doing" or "happening." In this context, X represents the agent, Y represents the patient, and Z represents the instrument used in the action of cutting. By exploring the semantic relationships of the verb "to cut" and identifying other verbs that share similar patterns, this research sheds light on the versatility and richness of the Swahili language verbs.

Use of Conceptual Metaphors in Miguna Miguna's Political Commentaries on Facebook in Kenya: A Conceptual Metaphor Perspective

PAROLE Journal of Linguistics and Education, 2023

This paper examines Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook, which have become a potent force... more This paper examines Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook, which have become a potent force in Kenya's socio-political discourse. Known for his incisive and metaphor-laden commentaries, Miguna, popularly called "Double M", has sparked a surge in online political discussions, evoking both admiration and ire from the public. However, his style has also raised concerns about slander and libel in pursuing justice, secularism, and democracy. The gap in this study lies in the limited understanding of how conceptual metaphors, as utilized in Miguna's political commentaries on Facebook in Kenya, impact power structures, government policies, and communication practices. The study uses the Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) by (Lakoff and Johnson, 1980) and the Deconstruction Theory (Derrida, 1967) to analyze the data collected from Miguna's Facebook page using a web scrapping tool, Octoparse. The Metaphor Identification Procedure Vrije Universiteit (MIPVU) was utilized to identify the conceptual metaphors in Miguna's commentaries. The analysis revealed seven metaphorical conceptualizations of politicians: despots, conmen and cartels, orphans and cows, corruption monsters, socialite bimbos, and human rights violators, with politicians as the source domains and despots, conmen and cartels, orphans and cows, corruption monsters, socialite bimbos, and human rights violators as the target domains. This study shows how metaphors contribute to political commentary, their impact on power structures, and their relevance in the digital age, specifically in Kenya. The findings have broader implications for freedom of speech, defamation, and responsible communication, guiding policymakers, educators, and media practitioners.

Semantic Analysis of Swahili Action Verb "To Cut" A Natural Metalanguage Approach

Indian Journal of Language and Linguistics, 2023

This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natu... more This research paper aims to analyze the Swahili action verb "to cut" within the framework of Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) theory. The study also seeks to identify other Swahili verbs that share similar semantic correlations. No research has been conducted on the verb "to cut" using the NSM model in Swahili. Therefore, this research is crucial in bridging the gap in the existing literature. Swahili holds a significant position as one of the official languages in Kenya, alongside English, making it prevalent in the region. To achieve the research objectives, a qualitative-descriptive research design methodology was employed. Native Swahili speakers were involved in the study, and selected texts were utilized as data sources. Through self-examination and careful analysis, a total of 22 Swahili verbs were identified to have comparable semantic correlates to the verb "to cut." These verbs include kata, tahirisha, pogoa, tema, katisha, nyofoa, chuna, vunja, kuhasiwa, tenganisha, nyoa, keketa, chanja, punguza, fyeka, pasua, chana, chinja, katika, gawanya, chomoa, and ng'oa. The findings of this study reveal that the Swahili word for "cutting" is derived from the original meaning of "doing" or "happening." In this context, X represents the agent, Y represents the patient, and Z represents the instrument used in the action of cutting. By exploring the semantic relationships of the verb "to cut" and identifying other verbs that share similar patterns, this research sheds light on the versatility and richness of the Swahili language verbs.

A Commentary on the novella, The Immigrant with a Difference by Ndaba Sibanda

Journal of Artistic Creation and Literary Research, 2023

The commentary embarks on an expedition through Ndaba Sibanda's novella, "The Immigrant with A Di... more The commentary embarks on an expedition through Ndaba Sibanda's novella, "The Immigrant with A Difference," unearthing its core facets while navigating a literary landscape adorned with many stylistic devices. With the precision of a surgeon's scalpel, we dissect this literary gem under the scrutiny of various thematic lenses that cast a spell over the reader, inviting a kaleidoscope of interpretations. Metaphors and Similes dance in the mind as we scrutinize the appropriateness of the book's title. Like a riddle hidden in plain sight, it unfurls both its denotative and connotative dimensions. This title does not merely suggest immigration but metamorphoses into a captivating figure, the Goblin, like a beguiling mirage on a distant horizon, transcending formal definitions, and echoing with emotional resonance. As we journey further, we grapple with the novella's central thesis and major argument, as rich as a treasure chest bursting with gems. The author's stance on the utilization of supernatural entities, akin to goblins, for the pursuit of wealth and pride, is akin to a tempestuous storm in a teacup. This narrative condemns such practices with the fervor of a firebrand preacher, denouncing them as morally wrong. The potential dangers lurking in these arcane pursuits are elucidated with a sense of foreboding, supported by chilling anecdotes that paint a landscape of goblins terrorizing communities in Southern African villages. The commentary draws us into a flashback, a portal into a world where myth and reality converge, much like the past intersecting with the present. The narrative takes us on a journey through opulence and pomposity, love and authority, greed and moral decadence, and social stratification, all intertwined like the threads of a complex tapestry. In the final lines, the commentary leaves us with a lasting impression of "The Immigrant with A Difference." It's not just a novella; it's a mirror reflecting the intricate web of human desires and the choices we make. It's a reminder that, in the end, we are all immigrants in this world, seeking our own unique differences.

Exploring Heaton's testing score as a diagnostic tool: A language testing study on English language learners

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies, 2023

This study investigates the utility of Heaton's Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for Engl... more This study investigates the utility of Heaton's Testing Score as a diagnostic instrument for English language learners. Focusing on 20 grade 10 English language learners at Amaano Boarding School in Hargeisa, Somaliland, our research employed a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our research arsenal encompassed Heaton's Testing Score, a comprehensive questionnaire, and a rigorous focus group interview. The primary aim was to bridge an existing lacuna in the literature regarding the practical application of Heaton's Testing Score in pinpointing areas of improvement for English language learners. Our findings unearthed distinct challenges that students grapple with, particularly in the domains of reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar. These issues were discerned through a meticulous analysis of English test questions. Additionally, our questionnaire and focus group interview unveiled insightful perspectives on the root causes, including the limited exposure to English beyond the classroom setting. This nuanced comprehension of learners' impediments adds substantial value to the field. Our results underscore the pivotal role of Heaton's Testing Score as a valuable diagnostic tool, empowering educators and researchers to identify precise areas requiring focused assistance for English language learners. This emphasizes the significance of tailored interventions in ameliorating the learning experience. The study bears implications for educators, policy-makers, and curriculum developers, advocating for a more effective paradigm in language testing and evaluation. In conclusion, this research firmly underscores Heaton's Testing Score as an indispensable diagnostic instrument for language testing, with far-reaching ramifications for the enhancement of English language learners.

An analysis of Swahili verbal inflection and derivational morphemes: An item and arrangement approach

Journal of Languages, Linguistics and Literary Studies, 2023

This research paper investigates the affixation and derivation processes in Swahili, a highly inf... more This research paper investigates the affixation and derivation processes in Swahili, a highly inflective and agglutinative language spoken in East Africa. Swahili defaults to SVO but allows for VSO or SOV word orders. The study's primary objective is to understand how Swahili words are inflected or derived, and the function of affixation. The research aims to enhance our understanding of the language's morphology and contribute to language learning and teaching methodologies. The study uses a descriptive-qualitative approach, collecting data from the Swahili dictionary, native Swahili speakers, and other relevant resources. Eight knowledgeable informants, native speakers of Swahili from Tanzania and Kenya, provide valuable insights. The researcher, who is also a native Swahili speaker, guides the data collection process. The research findings reveal that Swahili words exhibit affixation in the form of prefixes, infixes, suffixes, and circumfixes. The study also discovered that the key to successful Swahili derivation lies in utilizing stem words to create new words with distinct meanings or contexts from the same word class. Additionally, derivative morphemes were discovered as a result of the affixation process. In conclusion, the research contributes to our understanding of Swahili's morphology, particularly its affixation and derivation processes. The use of inflectional and derivational morphemes allows Swahili speakers to express complex thoughts and convey subtle nuances, making the language a rich and versatile means of communication and cultural expression. This research has implications for language learning and teaching, particularly for those interested in exploring Swahili word morphology.

Phonological Processes of the Kikuyu Dialectical Words: A Distinctive Features Approach

International Journal of Innovative Research and Development, 2023

Kikuyu language is a highly agglutinative language with an S-V-O sentence structure. This study a... more Kikuyu language is a highly agglutinative language with an S-V-O sentence structure. This study aims to find out the phonological processes of the Kikuyu dialectical words and determine the phonological rules. A limited number of studies have been done in the Kikuyu language concerning the phonological processes. Therefore, this study is justifiable because it will not only give more lexical units which are subject to phonological processes in the Kikuyu language, which may be inadequate in the previous studies but also create awareness among the scholars of the
various Kikuyu lexicons which undergo the phonological processes. The data for analysis is presented using phonetic transcription, and it was collected from the native, resourceful speakers of the Kikuyu language and from selected Kikuyu texts like Phonetics and Tonal Systems of Kikuyu (Lilias Armstrong, 2017) and Modern Gikuyu Dictionary: Gikuyu-English, English-Gikuyu (Kasahorow, 2014). The Distinctive Features theory is used in the phonological analysis of the data. The results of the study showed that different Kikuyu words undergo phonological processes evident in this study, like assimilation, consonant strengthening, glide formation, nasal coalescence, consonant coalescence, insertion, and vowel deletion.