Nzema Idiomatic Expressions as Indirection Strategy: A Politeness Theoretical Perspective

The paper explores Nzema idiomatic expressions used as indirection strategy. Figurative devices such proverbs and euphemisms have received quite an appreciable amount of study in connection with verbal Nzema. Little or no attention however has been given to idioms, particularly the language. This therefore focuses on idioms which incorporate body parts head/brain, eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, hands, legs, heart/chest, stomach body/skin that are avoid any straightforward language seeks undermine threaten face addressee. Data were gathered from both primary secondary sources. data comprise recordings traditional ceremonies marriage contraction arbitration, where use indirect was pervasive. Authors’ native speaker intuition also brought bear analysis data. Interviews competent indigenous speakers conducted for useful information clarification gathered. sourced two literary texts. finds that, these culturally constructed related deliberately employed saving politeness