Speech style variation in an endangered language

Abstract

Abstract Baba Malay encodes a coarse-refined contrast in speech styles, with the vowel [ɛ] being traditionally restricted to the use of refined word forms. Coarse forms ending with [al], [aɾ], and [as] contrast with refined forms that end with [ɛ], which are used when the speaker wants to be perceived as being particularly refined. A comparison of natural conversational speech with careful performative speech supports the claim that speakers of endangered languages are not “monostylistic”. Production data from eight speakers across different age groups show that the [ɛ] forms more commonly occur in the careful performative speech of younger speakers, as compared to when they converse more informally. No such trend is established for older speakers. The production data is considered together with the findings of a previously-executed matched-guise experiment, which shows that younger speakers in particular are reanalyzing the refined forms as being emblematic of community identity. In this study, younger speakers appear to be using [ɛ] to index an ideal speaker of Baba Malay in their careful performative speech. The research highlights that speakers of endangered languages, and even members of the younger generation, do have access to multiple styles.