Morpho-Syntactic Analysis of Temporal Realities in Esan and English Languages

Abstract

Temporal realities/expressions are crucial in human conversations, and are uniquely different. This study assesses temporal realities in English and Esan languages. It examines how tense and aspect are marked in both languages, uncovering different expressions. Esan language, an indigenous language within the Edo linguistic group in Nigeria, exhibits a different structural system of tense, aspect, and tonal variations from that of the English language. The different representations, usage, and flow of these elements may possibly impinge on usage which could result in limited exploration by Esan-English learners. Theoretical insights are drawn from Chomsky’s Principles and Parameters of the Universal Grammar. The descriptive method of analysis was used to analyse data drawn from English texts, and native speakers of the Esan language. Findings revealed that temporal realities in both languages vary in representation and usage. Identifying the differences would enable effective usage and avoidance of morphosyntactic errors. With the insights the study provides, it recommends teaching strategies including useful resources that would aid correct usage of the Esan and English tense, aspect, and tones. This should be adequately handled to enable improved learning and effective usage, as well as avoid challenging morphosyntactic analysis in tense, aspect and tonal variations. The study concludes that the understanding of varying temporal realities of both languages would enhance effective usage and curb unnecessary generalisations.