AN ETHNOLINGUISTIC ACCOUNT OF SELECTED IGBO PRAISE EXPRESSIONS

ABSTRACT

 This work is titled “AN ETHNOLINGUISTIC ACCOUNT OF SELECTED IGBO PRAISE EXPRESSIONS , using the Onicha-Ugbo as its case study. It provides insight on the words used for praise expressions during ceremonies and traditional events were such praises are used by the Onicha-Ugbo people. The data for this study were collected through participant observation and interviews of elderly persons in the community and it was analyzed, various aspects and categories were cited. The study observed that the‘Speaking Model’ analysis has proven to be effective in this research. Most Igbo praises are based on one’s achievements in the community. Majority of these praises are specific to the native speakers, but non-natives use them also.