Akounda

Titre

EXAMINING THE NAMDEUTSCH AND ITS STRUCTURAL VARIATION TO STANDARD GERMAN

Date

24/12/2025

Résumé

This study examines the historical development and structural evolution of Namdeutsch (Namibian German) within Namibia’s multilingual society. Drawing on the works of Wiese, Zimmer, and Shenna Shaah, it analyses syntactic and morphological variations that distinguish Namdeutsch from Standard German. The research examines how social, linguistic, and historical contacts—particularly with English, Afrikaans, and indigenous languages—have influenced the development of this German variety. Key findings include the adaptation of verbal structures, the use of prepositions, and the influence of colonial and postcolonial language policies. The paper argues that Namdeutsch reflects a dynamic case of contact-induced language change and variation. With our empirical findings, we aim to answer the key question of whether Namdeutsch is a koine or a pidgin. This article argues that Namdeutsch is koine. Keywords: Hereros and Namas; Language Island; language vitality; Namdeutsch.

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Domaine

Lettres

Auteur.e.s

Ezekiel OLAGUNJU

Numéro

1 (12 - 2025)
.