A lexico-pragmatic interpretation of Gi-gicugu Euphemism

Abstract

This research argues that language functions not only as a tool for communication but also as a medium for expressing attitudes, emotions, and worldviews. It contributes to the field of pragmatics and sociolinguistics, with a specific focus on lexico-pragmatic analysis within African languages. The study focused on the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect of the Kikuyu language. It examined the lexico-pragmatic interpretation of euphemism, particularly how politeness is linguistically constructed across various social contexts. The main objectives were to analyze the functions of euphemized lexical items in conveying meaning, to identify possible communication barriers arising from their use, and to explore how both positive and negative politeness strategies reflect the social values of the Gĩgĩcũgũ speaking community. The study employed a descriptive survey research design, which focused on understanding the meanings, experiences, and social contexts of language use rather than quantifying data. It aimed to capture the richness of speakers' expressions and attitudes through focus group discussions and recording of natural speeches. The study adopted a descriptive linguistic approach, which systematically described the language used in specific social settings, particularly how euphemisms function in communication within the Gĩgĩcũgũ speaking community. Purposive sampling was used to select native Gĩgĩcũgũ adult speakers from the rural Rung’eto region, ensuring fluency in the dialect and familiarity with cultural norms. The researcher used these speakers to obtain the euphemistic words and expressions used in the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect. Data was collected through focus group discussions and recording of natural speeches. The primary instrument of data collection was researcher designed guide for capturing euphemistic expressions used in relation to key social domains such as birth, circumcision, marriage, diseases, sex and relationships, church activities, and death. Data analysis was conducted thematically in line with Brown and Levinson’s (1987) Politeness Theory, examining how euphemisms serve both communicative and social functions. The study revealed that Gĩgĩcũgũ speakers employ euphemisms to maintain politeness, manage face-threatening acts, and reinforce social cohesion. It also revealed that the use of such expressions at times leads to miscommunication or ambiguity due to generational, social and cultural differences. Ultimately, the study shed light on how euphemism in the Gĩgĩcũgũ dialect operates as a culturally embedded strategy of meaning-making and politeness.