Finite state representation of reduplication processes in Igbo

Abstract

This paper presents a finite state model of reduplication processes in Igbo. Identified Igbo reduplication processes are based on (i) verbal reduplication with prefixation, (ii) total nominal reduplication (iii) ideophone reduplication. However, this work identifies and includes a fourth and fifth type that occurs in the language, namely; (iv) adverbial reduplication and (v) prepositional reduplication. Xerox Finite State Tool (XFST) was used in representing the five Igbo reduplication processes computationally. Igbo verbal reduplication exhibits selective reduplication process and is characterized by prefixation and vowel replacement. Vowel harmony phenomenon was taken into consideration in achieving verbal reduplication to cater for phonological changes. Model testing results showed 84% accuracy in both analysis and recognition of reduplicated forms in Igbo.