A Study of Loanwords in Tiv Domains of Communication

Abstract

Despite the growing presence of loanwords in the Tiv language, the phenomenon remains understudied. Existing literature on Tiv linguistics has largely focused on phonology, morphology, and general grammatical structure, with little systematic attention given to lexical borrowing. This study examines loanwords in Tiv domains of communication. The study aims to identify the loanwords borrowed into the Tiv language and analyses the domains in which they are borrowed. Specifically, the study identified the loanwords that have been borrowed into Tiv communication, analyses the different domains in which the Tiv people have borrowed loanwords, examine the grammatical classes of the borrowed words in Tiv communication. The study adopts the Language Contact Theory, developed by Uriel Weinreich in 1953, which explains that language contact is a central force of linguistic change, leading to the transfer of vocabulary and other linguistic features between languages. This study is library-based research. The data are gathered primarily from secondary sources, including published and unpublished works, academic journals, and online publications on the Tiv language. Additionally, the researchers’ intuitive knowledge as a native Tiv speakers was instrumental in data collection and validation. Findings reveal that Tiv has integrated a significant number of loanwords from other languages, particularly in domains such as agriculture, food, and household tools. These borrowings are shown to be concentrated in areas where new concepts or items have been introduced through cultural contact. The study concludes that lexical borrowing is a common and natural process that enriches Tiv by providing the linguistic resources needed to name new realities. The study recommends the systematic documentation of Tiv loanwords through written records and digital archives. This will preserve the borrowed lexicon and provide a resource for linguistic research and cultural education.