Place of Distinctive Features in Indigenous Languages: Sound Segments

Abstract

This paper examines the place of distinctive features in phonology. It traces the development of distinctive features in phonology. It argues that the consonants differ from vowels. The use of features in phonological description reflects the dynamic nature of linguistic behaviour. It enumerates the various ways its impact is felt in indigenous languages sound segments. The theoretical framework is also presented. This paper, therefore, concludes that distinctive features are subject to revision or modification from time to time.