Abstract:
This paper targets to discuss the role of the particle ro in Bbaledha (Lendu). This
particle seems to have a procedural function when used in discourse. Also, it overlaps in
form with a postposition, which is readily known as marking direction toward
something or a point.
In this paper, I will look at the different meanings and functions of the particle
ro with the purpose of bringing them together into a core meaning and function. I will,
therefore, use two theories to achieve my goal: Relevance Theory and Cognitive
Linguistics. I will argue that the particle ro has a core meaning that can be traced as
originating from a substantive and means "body", as an abstract feature rather than a
tangible thing. So, it seems that, while it is used in discourse, the particle ro contributes
to turning the hearer's perspective in a deictic-procedural manner either to a period in
time or a thing.
In this paper, I also look at the syntactic distribution of the particle ro at
different constituent levels, namely word, phrase, clause and between clauses. In fact, it
looks as if in all constituents ro occurs in final position and tends to move with the
constituent within which it is.
This work consists of six chapters. The first chapter is a general introduction to
the language, its genetic affiliation, its phonology, word-order typology and
orthography. Chapter two specifically discusses the two theories of explanation:
Relevance Theory and Cognitive Linguistics. Chapters three and four elaborate on the
syntactical distribution of ro in different constituents. Finally, chapters five and six
respectively present the search for the core meaning and function of the particle ro and
the conclusion.
