A Contrastive Analysis of Demonstratives in English and Ikwerre Languages

Abstract

Demonstratives, an essential linguistic element embodying deixis and indicating precise spatial and contextual relationships, serve as fundamental building blocks in communicative processes. This paper, therefore, examines the complex syntactic and morphological dynamics of demonstratives in English and Ikwerre languages and the differences and similarities in the use of demonstratives in both languages which may pose problems to the Ikwerre learner of English as a second language. This study uses the contrastive analysis theory and the descriptive grammar theory to guide its analysis of data. This eclectic approach provides a meticulous and exhaustive analysis, examining the distinctive features, elusive variations, and multifaceted usage of demonstratives within the framework of English and Ikwerre grammar. This paper meticulously explores both proximal and distal forms of demonstratives, dissecting their roles as determiners, adjectives, and possessive markers in the linguistic structures of both languages. The findings of this study reveal that similar to English, Ikwerre demonstratives function as determiners, adjectives, and indicators of possession. Notably, the post-head position of Ikwerre determiners, distinct from English, reflects the language's head-first structure, shaping its grammatical features. In the adjectival function, both Ikwerre and English utilize demonstratives in predicative contexts, imparting specific attributes or conditions to nouns. Structural disparities, such as the head-first language structure and the inclusion of a pronominal element in Ikwerre demonstratives, further distinguish their syntactic characteristics. Morphologically, Ikwerre introduces a unique structure for plural nouns, utilizing both pre-head and post-head demonstratives to enhance specificity. This stands in contrast to English's use of a single demonstrative for plural reference. The findings thus, offer invaluable contributions to the overarching realm of cross-