Explaining Ga plurals

The problem of the characterization of Ga nominals whose plurals end in ji [d(curly-tail yogh)ii] is examined diachronically. It is argued that they derive from Proto-Ga-Dangme singular forms of the shape CVCV, & the second syllables have undergone a process of segmental attrition & rhythmic change, in consequence of vowel & syllable weakening. The results of these processes, which account for the Ga innovation of ji plurals, have been very different depending on whether the syllable was final, as in the singular, or followed by the plural suffix, which may represent a retention from common Gur-Kwa. The same processes also had different results in Dangme, which seems never to have had ji plurals. Details of apparent exceptions & attendant problems are addressed here. Evidence is provided that shows that the distribution of ji plurals has changed during the past three centuries, that there must have been considerable interdialectal borrowing in the early stages of the differentiation of Proto-Ga-Dangme, & that some superficially regular Ga reflexes of Proto-Ga-Dangme nominals are in fact highly problematic. 4 Appendixes, 28 References. Adapted from the source document