A lexicostatistical survey of the Setswana dialects spoken in Botswana

Abstract

Setswana, spoken by more than 4 million people in Botswana, South Africa and Namibia, is the most widespread language in southern Africa in terms of geographical extent. Because of its large geographical area with originally limited interaction between the speakers, it has developed numerous varieties, some of which have become remarkably distinct in their phonological, morphological and lexical characteristics. This study is concerned with the Setswana varieties which have emerged in Botswana. It is based on a lexicostatistical survey which was conducted on the Setswana traditional ethnic communities which, up to now, had been presumed to constitute distinct linguistic entities. The study arrives at far-reaching revelations about the degree and hierarchy of relationship between these entities. The study also discusses some fundamental methodological questions.

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