Sociolinguistic Terminology for Redressing Grievances in Kabɩyɛ

Abstract

Abstract: Kabɩyɛ, an Eastern Gur language spoken in the north of Togo, is rich in figures of speech such as idioms, proverbs, euphemisms, metonymies and others. It has also some specific words and expressions used in particular subjects. There is, for instance, a set of words and expressions used to avert or resolve potential conflicts that might sometimes arise among interlocutors. Unfortunately, nowadays, that terminology seems to drift away from many people and particularly the younger ones. So, this study, conducted in the framework of pacifism theory of language use and in politeness theory of language, seeks to restore and popularize that precious terminology efficient at making peace. The analyzed data are collected by means of observation on the one hand, and through direct interviews of Kabɩyɛ speakers on the other. The results reveal that unwholesome words and bad acts that may trigger disputes can be redressed by other words that appear stronger than those demeaning words and actions. Keywords: pacifism theory, terminology, grievance, unwholesome words, cleansing