Abstract:
Routine expressions have been regarded among others as specific and standardized expressions
which are universal in nature and are used for cultural and socio-economic interactions in
speech communities. This study examined the linguistics of routine expressions in the Anum
community. Taking a cue from earlier studies (e.g. Ameka, 1987, 1994; Dzameshie, 2008,
Agyekum, 2010), the study employs the ethnographic design using a qualitative approach to
gather data from three different Anum communities using the cluster, random and purposive
sampling techniques. Through observation, recordings and focus group discussions with 60
indigenes, Anum routine expressions were identified to align with the universality of the
phenomenon, although some of their meanings are language-specific. The analysis also
revealed some aspects of the culture and socio-economic practices of the Anum people. One
major significance of the study is the observation of how routine expressions reveal aspects of
the history of the Anums. Based on the results, it is recommended that the study of routine
expressions should go beyond the cultural and socio-economic aspects to assess the historical
dimensions so as to project the rich socio-cultural as well as the history of the people.
Description:
A dissertation in the Department of Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Foreign Languages
Education and Communication, submitted to the School of Graduate Studies, in partial
Fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Philosophy (Applied Linguistics) in the University of Education, Winneba
JULY, 2020