Routine expressions in Anum

Abstract

Routine expressions have been regarded among others as specific and standardized expressions which are universal in nature and are used for cultural and socio-economic interactions in speech communities. This study examined the linguistics of routine expressions in the Anum community. Taking a cue from earlier studies (e.g. Ameka, 1987, 1994; Dzameshie, 2008, Agyekum, 2010), the study employs the ethnographic design using a qualitative approach to gather data from three different Anum communities using the cluster, random and purposive sampling techniques. Through observation, recordings and focus group discussions with 60 indigenes, Anum routine expressions were identified to align with the universality of the phenomenon, although some of their meanings are language-specific. The analysis also revealed some aspects of the culture and socio-economic practices of the Anum people. One major significance of the study is the observation of how routine expressions reveal aspects of the history of the Anums. Based on the results, it is recommended that the study of routine expressions should go beyond the cultural and socio-economic aspects to assess the historical dimensions so as to project the rich socio-cultural as well as the history of the people.