Diagnostic features of English-lexifier Creoles

Abstract

This paper analyzes the attestations in Antiguan of the diagnostic features of English-lexifier contact languages, as proposed by Baker and Huber (2001). It compares the distribution of these features in Antiguan and the seven Atlantic English-lexifier Pidgins and Creoles considered by Baker and Huber (2001). The features identified serve as quantitative measures of the affinity between Antiguan and two Creoles, Bajan and Kittitian, which contributed to its emergence, and between Antiguan and Vincentian, a Creole with significant Antiguan input. A number of selected diagnostic features found in Antiguan are discussed. It is shown that data from Antiguan are relevant to the distribution of diagnostic features across English-lexifier Pidgins and Creoles as well as to their adequate classification.