Abstract
Language is not a static system. It is susceptible to various forces or processes which continuously operate on it over periods of time. These forces or processes are, inter alia, responsible for the various trends and changes reflected in the different linguistic domains. In some instances these trends/changes are not perceptible in a synchronic dissection of a specific language, but only perceived in an analysis involving a cross-section of numerous languages. It is my aim in this article to exemplify some trends which appear to characterize the Bantu languages of the South-Eastern Zone (Doke's Zone 60). The areas of investigation dealt with can be conveniently grouped under the following headings: 1. Class reduction; 2. Prefixal vs suffixal system; 3. Category shifting. Data on four language groups form the basis of this study, namely Nguni, Sotho, Tsonga, and Venda. Where dialects of a group are involved, it suffices to single out only one when discussing each of the above areas of investigation, exce...
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
