Aspects of Nʋngʋrama Grammar : a functional-typological approach based on data from three varieties (Deeləmə, Gʋyʋma and Gwaandama)

Abstract

The dissertation examines the Nʋngʋrama/Longuda language cluster which is spoken in the north-eastern Nigerian states of Adamawa and Gombe. It focuses on three of the five varieties, Deeləmə, Gʋyʋma, and Gwaandama. The polylectal approach highlights language variation and enhances the understanding of the language cluster as a whole. The functional-typological study aims to document and describe the most salient linguistic structures by drawing from a variety of sources and research. The book commences with an introductory chapter on the language’s classification, varieties, speech communities, as well as the theoretical framework employed. This is followed by a phonological sketch which provides the basis for the remaining chapters. The subsequent chapters place emphasis on the field of morphosyntax. Consequently, it contributes to the description of African languages, especially those classified as ‘Adamawa’ and ‘Benue-Volta’ languages.