DefinePK

Research Objective

To describe the process of epenthesis in Pakistani Urduized English, specifically how English borrowed words are adapted in spoken Urdu within the framework of Optimality Theory, and to analyze the phonological processes involved in breaking consonant clusters.

Methodology

Theoretical research using a field observation technique for data collection. A list of 50 frequently used English loanwords with specific consonant clusters at onset and coda positions was provided to 10 native Urdu speakers. Their pronunciations were recorded and transcribed into IPA. Optimality Theory was applied for data analysis to identify and rank constraints affecting epenthesis.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Select English loanwords with CC clusters] --> B[Provide list to native Urdu speakers]
    B --> C[Record pronunciation]
    C --> D[Transcribe recordings into IPA]
    D --> E[Apply Optimality Theory analysis]
    E --> F[Identify and rank phonological constraints]
    F --> G[Analyze epenthesis patterns]
    G --> H[Formulate conclusions]                    

Discussion

The study argues that the adoption of English loanwords into Urduized English triggers phonological processes like epenthesis, which can be effectively explained by Optimality Theory. The insertion of vowels is a strategy to conform to Urdu's phonotactic rules, particularly the avoidance of complex consonant clusters. The analysis highlights the ranking of constraints such as COMPLEX-O, DEP-IO, CODA, CONTIGUITY, Peak CON, Align-R, SSP, and COMP-ONS in explaining these adaptations.

Key Findings

Urdu speakers in Pakistan insert vowel segments (epenthesis) to break consonant clusters in English loanwords, both at the beginning and end of words. This process is driven by the phonological constraints of Urdu, where such clusters are not permitted. The study identified a pattern and ranking of epenthesis constraints within Optimality Theory.

Conclusion

Epenthesis is a widely used process in Pakistani Urduized English to break problematic consonant clusters in English loanwords. This adaptation is governed by a ranked hierarchy of constraints within Optimality Theory, reflecting the influence of the native Urdu phonology. The study provides insights into how loanwords are phonologically modified and suggests further spectrographic investigation.

Fact Check

1. Number of speakers: 10 native Urdu speakers were recorded. (Confirmed in text)
2. Number of stimuli: A list of 50 English words was used as stimuli. (Confirmed in text)
3. Theoretical Framework: The study applies Optimality Theory (OT) to analyze epenthesis. (Confirmed in text)

Mind Map