The Feature of ATR and ATR Harmony in Nilo-Saharan Languages of Ethiopia

Wakweya Olani Gobena

Abstract


Within the prominent vowel systems in Nilo-Saharan languages, Advanced Tongue Root (ATR) feature plays significant part in the phonological system of the languages. This review attempts to assess the studies on ATR contrasts and ATR harmony in the phonetic and phonological characteristics of the languages in Ethiopia. Some of the languages with accessible study outputs were considered under analysis in this review work; based on the studies, the fundamental ATR related characteristics of the languages were provided, and the relevant discussions were made accordingly. The information from the relevant studies is presented systematically and comparatively so that the readers find it easily understood; hence, the paper will have its intended linguistic value for the further researchers and other beneficiaries. Finally, some generalizations were drawn and recommendations were forwarded.

Keywords


harmony, ATR systems, Nilo-Saharan, vowel, phonology, phonetics

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References


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