The Syntax and Semantics of Negative Markers in Idó̩mà and English: A Cross-Linguistic Investigation of Variation and Universals

Abstract

Negative markers vary across human languages posing significant challenges to linguistic theory and language acquisition. Specifically, Idó̩mà and English display distinct differences in their negative marking systems, with implications for cross-linguistic teaching and learning. Existing studies focused mainly on the comparison of English and major Nigerian indigenous languages, neglecting Idómà, being a minority and an understudied language. This paper, therefore, investigates the syntax and semantics of negative markers in Idó̩mà and English languages, identifying the similarities and differences. Although, Idó̩mà and English belong to different language families, they share areas of convergence and divergence. The study adopted the Chomskyan theory. Principles and Parameters Theory as an advanced theory of universal grammar explains that languages are different in their parameters but similar in their principles. English language data was obtained from English grammar texts relevant to the study whereas Idó̩mà language data was collected purposively from competent native bilinguals. The Otúkpò dialect of Idó̩mà was adopted being the central and standard dialect. Findings show that Idó̩mà and English share a similar SVO word order but differ in negative constructions. Idó̩mà places its negative marker after the verb whereas English usually places its negative markers before the main verb. Basically, in negative constructions, Idó̩mà uses a SVONeg word order whereas English uses a SNegVO word order. Other negative markers or affixes are morphologically present in English but differ in Idó̩mà. These differences are crucial and require critical attention for L2 learners to avoid ungrammaticality.