Thesis Abstract

ABSTRACT Phonological processes such as labialization and palatalization are crucial components of the phonological system of many languages, including Hausa. This study aims to conduct a feature-driven analysis of labialization and palatalization in Hausa phonology. The research will explore how these processes manifest in the language and the underlying features that drive them. The study will begin by providing a comprehensive overview of the phonological processes of labialization and palatalization, discussing their definitions, manifestations, and theoretical implications. It will then examine the specific contexts in which labialization and palatalization occur in Hausa, focusing on both segmental and supra-segmental levels of analysis. By analyzing a wide range of linguistic data, including words, phrases, and sentences, the study will identify the patterns and constraints that govern labialization and palatalization in the language. Furthermore, the research will investigate the phonetic and phonological motivations behind labialization and palatalization in Hausa. By exploring the acoustic properties of labialized and palatalized sounds, the study aims to uncover the articulatory gestures and perceptual cues that distinguish these processes in the speech signal. Additionally, the research will examine the phonological features that trigger and constrain labialization and palatalization in Hausa, shedding light on the abstract representations that underlie these phonological phenomena. Moreover, the study will consider the diachronic development of labialization and palatalization in Hausa, tracing their historical origins and evolution within the language. By examining sound changes and phonological processes over time, the research aims to uncover the pathways through which labialization and palatalization have emerged and spread in Hausa phonology. Overall, this feature-driven analysis of labialization and palatalization in Hausa will contribute to our understanding of phonological processes in the language and their implications for phonological theory. By investigating the specific phonetic and phonological properties of labialization and palatalization, the study aims to provide insights into the nature of these processes and their role in shaping the phonological system of Hausa.

Thesis Overview

1.0 GENERAL INTRODUCTION

This research work would be carried-out in one of the four (4) major areas of linguistics (phonology). Phonology is the systematic study of sounds system of a language. However, the research work does not include all aspects of phonology rather it will be restricted to two important phonological processes in Hausa language: Labialization and Palatalization which are secondary articulations in Hausa language. Dustan, E (1996).

It is obvious that Hausa is the most widely spoken language among its different users in northern part of the country among different dialects such as Kananci, Sakkwatanci, Katsinanci, Kabanci, Zamfaranci, and the like. Dustan, E (1996). Mu’azu (2005), sees labialization as a secondary articulation in which lip rounding is added to a non-labial sound as in the case of articulation of /kw/, /Æ™w/, and /gw/ consonants which are specifically referred to as labialized velars. Palatalisation is a verbal noun derived from the verb to “palatalized” means to add a palatal articulation (raise the front of the tongue towards the hard palate) to a non-palatal consonant under certain conditions. Palatalization is also a secondary articulation; there may be modification which adds an in colouring to the sound. The question now is, what are the kinds of consonants and under what conditions are they palatalized? Generally speaking, consonants that are commonly palatalized in Hausa under particular circumstances are twofold, namely the alveolars /s/, /t/, /d/ and /z/, and the velars /w/, /k/, /Æ™/, and /g/. Sani M. A. Z. (2005).

1.1 STATEMENT   OF THE PROBLEM

Hausa language is spoken in Nigeria particularly in the Northern region of the country since time immemorial. It is no doubt, the most widely spoken language in Nigeria. In particular the language is spoken as L1 in many states of the Northern Nigeria which include: Kano, Katsina, Daura, Zamfara, Kebbi and etc. This study examines two (2) phonological processes: (labialization and palatalization) in Hausa language. It is part of the study to identify the nature and conditions for each of them in Hausa language..