Archival evidence of language change : morphological adaptation of English words in Runyankore-Rukiga

Abstract

This study investigated how English words adapt to the morphological structure of Runyankore-Rukiga, and whether the adaptation mechanisms change over time. Through language contact, Runyankore-Rukiga has borrowed words from English among other languages, adapting them to its morphological system. This study argues that there are different adaptation mechanisms of English words in Runyankore-Rukiga which were not yet exposed. This study specifically explores English words in Runyankore-Rukiga by word class, domain, and period of occurrence in the language; and analyzes the morphological adaptation mechanisms of English words in Runyankore-Rukiga. A selected sample of Runyankore-Rukiga newspapers: Buseesire, Ageeteeraine, Orumuri and Entatsi as well as spoken utterances on selected radio talk shows broadcast on Radio West were collected. Using the classification theory of loan words by Winford (2003) as a theoretical framework, Runyankore-Rukiga loan words were studied to unravel the morphological adaptations and how they fit into Runyankore-Rukiga’s morphological structures. The results of the study indicate that English nouns typically adapt through affixation to align with the language’s noun class system, while verbs undergo significant morphological changes to express tense, aspect, and negation, among other structures. Additionally, morpho-phonological adjustments are made to adhere to Runyankore-Rukiga’s phonotactic rules, with a notable increase in phonological nativization for technological terms since the early 2000s, reflecting technological advancements and shifting adaptation strategies. Historically, the study shows a shift from extensive morphological adaptation through affixation in the mid-20th century to more phonological nativization in recent decades, highlighting the language’s adaptive flexibility. By documenting historical trends and current adaptation strategies, the study offers valuable insights for linguists and contributes to the broader field of linguistic adaptation of loanwords.