Authors : Masechaba ML Mokhathi-Mbhele

Volume/Issue : Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 11 - November

Google Scholar : http://tinyurl.com/25n8u2hv

Scribd : http://tinyurl.com/ywwuvu8c

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10495647

Abstract : The purpose of this paper is to present that the onset diacritic apostrophe on some Sesotho words initiated with nasal sounds is compulsory. This description is underpinned by Integrated Multiple Patterns (IMP) (of spelling) theory. The design is qualitative as description depends on the rules of Sesotho and the speakers’ perspective of the use of the onset diacritic apostrophe. The description alleviates compromise of accurate form-meanings of words anchored by assumption. Population encompasses sixty- eight words and all this data is used for purposive random sampling. Participant observation is the instrument for this written data collection. The seventeen observations categorized as Findings draw structural and functional contrasts on these nasals initiated Sesotho words. The findings project obligation of explicit onset apostrophe in writing some Sesotho words beginning with nasals for it successfully attains form-meaning distinction or contrast. Integration of Phonetics, Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics and Sociolinguistics disciplines cannot be overemphasized. Recommendation proposes obligatory explicit onset diacritic apostrophe where applicable on handwritten and computer typed Sesotho nasals to ascertain and facilitate for accurate and appropriate spelling for effective and productive communication and rid the meaning-assumption problem.

Keywords : Onset, diacritic, apostrophe, nasals, integration.