CLASSES OF MOTION VERBS IN IGBO

Abstract

This paper draws data from standard Igbo to discuss the issue of motion verbs in Igbo. It adopts a descriptive approach for its analysis. The study uses the morphological, tonal and semantic criteria to identify some classes of motion verbs in Igbo. Classes like simple motion verbs, compound motion verbs and complex motion verbs are identified on the bases of morphological criteria. In terms of their tones, high tone motion verbs and low tone motion verbs exist in the language. Semantically, the classes of path of motion verbs, manner of motion verbs and manner-path of motion verbs can be confirmed. Other features identified include the expression 
of overt action and the occurrence in serial verb constructions.