Common Characteristics In Sukuma-Nyamwezi Transitional Dialects

ABSTRACT

This study examined common characteristics in Sukuma-Nyamwezi transitional dialects with a goal to examine similarities and differences in lexical and phonetic systems of Ndala and Isikisya dialects of Sukuma and Nyamwezi languages and to assess the level of relatedness between Ndala and Isikisya dialects of Sukuma and Nyamwezi languages respectively. The study employed a descriptive case study design. This design was considered relevant and suitable in trying to understand in details on the common characteristics on Sukuma-Nyamwezi transitional dialects which involve measurement, classification, analysis, comparison and interpretation of data. A total sample of 60 respondents, male and female, with age range of 20-60 was included. Data collected included primary and secondary data and were collected through Word list, Questionnaire, Interview and Documentary review. Tables and graphs were used to illustrate some aspects under investigation more vividly. The major findings were organized with regard to some lexical and phonological features. The voices of the respondents prominently featured the reporting so as to give the reader more insights of the issues at hand. The researcher recommends that the government should provide funds for research so as to have serious and many more studies in ethnic community languages.