A Conceptual Analysis of Dholuo Insults

Abstract

Swearing is a universal phenomenon shared and normalized in everyday conversations; it plays a pivotal role in the
management of feelings and emotions. Though tabooed in many societies, insults are frequently used in daily interactions
moreover, they provide a platform upon which linguistic analyses can be conducted. Insults, a sub set of swearing, cover a
variety of topics and play different roles for example, some insults help language users get relief from anger and tension in
certain situations. Others are used to humiliate or belittle while some are used to challenge the existing social power. Insults
are context and culture dependent as such, what may be considered an insult in one society may not be in another. Insults
take varied forms, there are those that are direct others indirect. Additionally, there are those that are short consisting of
just a word while others consist of two or more sentences. This study sought to classify Dholuo insults and describe the
images used therein; examine the image schemas in Dholuo insults and explain the functions of Dholuo insults. The study
employed the Conceptual Integration Theory by Fauconnier and Turner (2002) which helped in the construction of meaning
of conceptual metaphors used in Dholuo insults and the Image schema theory by Johnson (1987) which helped unravel the
meanings portrayed in the varied metaphors used in Dholuo insults. The data which was collected using an interview schedule
was analyzed qualitatively. The study revealed that Dholuo insults are not only used to release pent up emotions but also for
humour.