Authors: Njobvu Prospelina, Supervisor: Dr. Suma
Abstract: This Study Investigates Regional Social Variations In Pronunciation, With A Focus On Accent And Dialect Differences In Siavonga District, Zambia. Language Variation Is A Complex Phenomenon Influenced By Socio-Cultural, Geographical, And Historical Factors, With Pronunciation Being A Prominent Feature Of Regional Identities. This Research Aims To Explore How Accent And Dialectical Differences Manifest Within The Siavonga Community, Considering Both Rural And Urban Influences, Social Class Distinctions, And The Role Of Education And Media In Shaping Linguistic Practices. Using A Combination Of Sociolinguistic Interviews, Acoustic Analysis, And Participant Observation, The Study Identifies Key Features Of Pronunciation Variation, Including Vowel Shifts, Consonantal Changes, And Intonation Patterns. Additionally, The Research Highlights How These Variations Are Perceived By Different Social Groups, Such As Age, Gender, And Occupation, And Their Significance In Social Interaction And Group Identity. The Findings Contribute To A Deeper Understanding Of The Dynamic Relationship Between Language And Society In A Multilingual African Context, Providing Insights Into How Regional Linguistic Differences Function As Markers Of Social Distinction And Cultural Belonging. The Study Ultimately Aims To Foster A Greater Appreciation For Linguistic Diversity And Its Role In Shaping Regional Identities In Zambia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19250198
