Grammatical Variation and Feature Checking in Yoruba: A Minimalist Account

Abstract

Variation refers to the systemic differences in language use that occur across speakers, contexts and time, reflecting the dynamic and adaptive nature of human language. In Yoruba, this phenomenon has become significant due to contact with English, Arabic and socio-cultural influences. While the previous studies have largely examined phonological and sociolinguistic variation, grammatical variation-particularly from syntactic standpoint-remains underexplored. This study, therefore, focuses on identifying and analysing grammatical variation in Yoruba using the framework of the Minimalist program (MP) with the view to identifying forms of grammatical variation and determining their linguistic motivation. Data were drawn from the Yoruba TV show ‘Masoyinbo’ and natural conversation involving two speakers for the two groups aged (20-35 and 45-70). The study examines three core areas common among the speakers of Yoruba: prepositional variation (fún/l??w?? alternation), lexical-positional alternation (Lola/lagbara alternation) and lexical–semantic alternation (gb??/m?? alternation). These were analysed based on feature valuation, lexical insertion and interpretive effects at the conceptual–intentional interface. The findings reveal that grammatical variation in Yoruba is conditioned by feature compatibility, optional lexical insertion and interpretive flexibility rather than random alternation. The study concludes that such variation reflects interaction between syntactic structure and sociocultural factors such as age, religion and language competence, underscoring the Yoruba evolving grammatical system.