A comparative analysis of extra syllabification in Yoruba and Japanese English usage (Published)
This research takes a look at a common phonological error among Japanese and Yoruba language users of English. This error has to do with the addition of extra syllables in English loanwords used by speakers of both languages, even when speaking English. The research reveals that despite difference in language type—with Japanese being a pitch accent and Yoruba a tonal language, both languages share certain traits and this turns out to be the reason for both languages having this error. It is however realised that the error is more pronounced among Japanese users of English than their Yoruba counterparts and the reason is because of their little exposure to and use of English language. The research discusses the effect of this error on the spoken English of both users, proffers solutions to this problem and suggested ideas for further research.
Citation:Bartholomew Ayeni (2021) A comparative analysis of extra syllabification in Yoruba and Japanese English usage, International Journal of English Language and Linguistics Research, Vol.9, No 7, pp.32-44
Keywords: Japanese, Phonology, Yoruba, extra syllabification, loanwords