An investigation of speech act realization in Efik traditional discourses in Cross River State
- Project Research
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Background of the Study
Speech act theory examines how utterances function not merely to convey information but also to perform actions. In Efik traditional discourses in Cross River State, speech acts are central to ceremonies, conflict resolution, and communal storytelling. These discourses often incorporate directives, promises, and expressions of solidarity, which are realized through culturally specific language forms. Research indicates that traditional Efik communicative practices use a rich array of speech acts to negotiate social relationships and maintain cultural continuity (Akpan, 2023). This study investigates how speech acts are realized in Efik traditional discourses, focusing on the linguistic and paralinguistic features that mark different types of acts. Through detailed discourse analysis and field recordings, the research will examine how contextual factors and cultural norms influence the performance and interpretation of speech acts. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for appreciating the multifunctional nature of language in Efik society and for preserving the integrity of traditional communication practices (Etim, 2024; Ibekwe, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although speech act theory has been widely applied, there is limited research on how these acts are realized in Efik traditional discourses. Existing studies often overlook the cultural nuances and performance aspects that are vital in Efik communication. This gap limits our understanding of how language functions to perform social actions in traditional settings, hindering efforts to document and preserve these practices (Akpan, 2023; Etim, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To identify key speech acts in Efik traditional discourses.
2. To analyze the linguistic features that realize these acts.
3. To document cultural factors influencing speech act performance.
Research Questions:
1. What are the primary speech acts in Efik traditional discourse?
2. How are these acts linguistically and paralinguistically realized?
3. How do cultural norms shape the realization of speech acts?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it provides an in-depth analysis of speech act realization in Efik traditional discourses, contributing to the preservation of cultural communication practices and informing broader theories of language function (Akpan, 2023; Ibekwe, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on Efik traditional discourses in Cross River State and does not extend to modern or digital communication.
Definitions of Terms:
• Speech Act: An utterance that performs an action.
• Traditional Discourse: Oral narratives and communicative practices rooted in cultural tradition.
• Efik: A language spoken in Cross River State, Nigeria.
