Lexical Variations in the Ewe Language Spoken In Ho in the Volta Region of Ghana

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate the lexical variances observed in the Ewe language spoken among the Ho group. This study aims to examine the observed variations in speech patterns among both indigenous individuals and immigrants residing in the vicinity of Ho, the capital city of the Volta Region. The data analysis used the application of Labov's variationist theory from 1996 and Giles' speech accommodation theory from 1973. Information was gathered from native communities and those who had migrated to the area under investigation. The research employed a qualitative methodology and utilized purposive sampling procedures. The data were acquired through the utilization of observational methods, interviews, and the analysis of live radio broadcasts. Investigations have uncovered substantial regional and social disparities in the Ewe language spoken in Ho, leading to the utilization of distinct linguistic characteristics in everyday communication. The dialects within the speech community exhibit lexical, phonological, and grammatical diversity. There are some lexicons that the three dialects share, while others are unique to only two of the three dialects. Additionally, there are certain lexicons that are different from one dialect to another. The study provides confirmation that the dialectal backgrounds of language users within the speech community do not have an impact on the issue of mutual understanding. This is evident from the fact that the Eedome, Aŋlↄ and Tↄŋu dialects can be considered as being mutually intelligible. Keywords: Lexical, variation, ewe language, Eedome and Tↄŋu or Aŋlↄ, Tↄŋu, Ho