Linguistic Codes for Security and Social Stability in Urhoboland: Implications for the Translator

Abstract

This paper posits that every language is characterized by linguistic codes needed by speakers for their security, identity, and social stability in today’s doubtless several security issues. In Urhoboland, such codes manifest in spoken and extra-linguistic forms with varying degree of meanings to different people at various times and places. The paper explores, among other conceivable objectives, some salient linguistic codes which the forebears of the Urhobo people did not pass on the younger generations as well as their translatability. The theoretical framework underlying the discussion hinges on Bernstein (1971) sociolinguistic theory of language codes which is cognate with language use. Taking cognizance of Urhobo believe systems, their social-cultural and religious practices continue to exert considerable challenges in translation studies as well as their importance to the people in contemporary times. Moreover, a large corpus of interviews and participant observation methods subsist in gathering and analysing relevant data for the research. Finally, the paper concludes that all linguistic codes in Urhoboland manifest themselves in socio-cultural contexts through which the people gather experiences for concentration, attention, and as a panacea for staying out of trouble