SOAS Research Online

Abstract

Somali is probably the best documented, in linguistic terms, of all of the Cushitic languages. Much work has been undertaken on the syntax and the morphology of the language. However, when it comes to the phonology of the language there is a distinct lack. The aim of this thesis is to help fill that gap. This will be done by taking the generative theory of lexical phonology as a basis of a model of Somali phonology; within that overall framework a model of melodic representation will be proposed as well as a model of prosodic representation. The proposals are made specifically with the Somali language in mind and explanations of certain aspects of Somali phonology will be set out both in the chapters discussing the models of representation as well as in the chapter specifically dealing with the explanation of a number of phonological phenomena manifested in the inflectional morphology of the language. The thesis does not cover the whole set of phonological phenomena manifested in Somali, nor does it set out to produce a universal model of phonology. As far as Somali is concerned, it is hoped the work will provide a convenient springboard for the future study of phonological phenomena in Somali. As far as universal phonological matters are concerned it is hoped that the model proposed here for Somali will be another step in the continuing search for universal explanatory aspects of phonology. Chapter one introduces the language and the main theoretical assumptions. Chapters 2 and 3 introduce the models of melodic representation and prosodic representation respectively. Chapter 4 provides explanations for certain phonological phenomena manifested in the inflectional morphology of Somali. Chapter 5 brings the whole together and looks forward to the future study of Somali phonology in light of this thesis.