Revisiting the Classic Codeswitching–Composite Codeswitching Distinction: A Case Study of Nonverbal Predication in Ewe–English Codeswitching*

Abstract

This paper concerns the distribution of English-origin nonverbal predicative elements in mixed constructions in Ewe–English codeswitching. It assumes Myers-Scotton's ideas of Matrix Language (ML) and confronts the question What is the ML in the mixed constructions? In an attempt to answer this question, the paper explores two types of ML hypothesis: Ewe-only ML hypothesis and a composite ML hypothesis. The two hypotheses share common assumptions and subtle similarities while differing with regard to a few crucial theoretical considerations that by and large determine which of the two adequately and satisfactorily answers the research question. The paper demonstrates that the composite ML hypothesis answers the research question better, a finding which marks a departure from the traditional way of looking at Ewe–English codeswitching (CS) as Classic CS. We will also briefly survey analogous CS patterns in Akan–English CS to underscore the implications of the finding for CS research being carried out within Myers-Scotton's framework.