A sociolinguistic study of an Ewe-based youth language of Aflao, Ghana

Amenorvi, C.R.

doi:doi:10.48273/LOT0680

This study explores Adzagbe, a youth language based on Ewe, spoken in Aflao, Ghana. It aims to uncover how this code is created and the reasons behind its development among Aflao's youth. Data was collected through recorded conversations, interviews, and observations across four key zones of Adzagbe speakers: Zorokpome, Dekeme, Atisukorpe, and Border. Findings show that Adzagbe is formed through the manipulation of Ewe, combined with elements from some Ghanaian and West African languages, English and French, resulting in unique lexical items spanning nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. These manipulations include morphological changes like prefixation, suffixation, and reduplication, as well as phonological adjustments such as clipping and metathesis of word syllables. Semantic alterations involve metaphor, euphemism, and narrowing. Adzagbe idiomatic expressions are creative, often humorous, and rooted in Ewe, reflecting the speakers'identity, which is distinct from the older...Show moreThis study explores Adzagbe, a youth language based on Ewe, spoken in Aflao, Ghana. It aims to uncover how this code is created and the reasons behind its development among Aflao's youth. Data was collected through recorded conversations, interviews, and observations across four key zones of Adzagbe speakers: Zorokpome, Dekeme, Atisukorpe, and Border. Findings show that Adzagbe is formed through the manipulation of Ewe, combined with elements from some Ghanaian and West African languages, English and French, resulting in unique lexical items spanning nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. These manipulations include morphological changes like prefixation, suffixation, and reduplication, as well as phonological adjustments such as clipping and metathesis of word syllables. Semantic alterations involve metaphor, euphemism, and narrowing. Adzagbe idiomatic expressions are creative, often humorous, and rooted in Ewe, reflecting the speakers'identity, which is distinct from the older generation and mainstream Aflao culture. The language and associated culture are male-dominated, with practices like nicknaming, flamboyant fashion, and rebellious music. Displays of wealth, drug use, and attention-seeking behaviours such as hair dyeing and splurging on expensive vehicles are common in public settings. Adzagbe is also gendered and ageist, attracting criticism from the older generation, particularly towards its female speakers.
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A sociolinguistic study of an Ewe-based youth language of Aflao, Ghana

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