Examining the Internal Factors Underlying Language Change in the Kaili Language

Abstract

Research on language change has always captured the attention of linguists. This is because language is constantly evolving. This study explores and analyzes the factors driving language change in the Kaili language using linguistic and historical-linguistic approaches. These approaches are used to uncover, understand, and describe the internal factors of language change in Kaili. The method used in this study is a qualitative descriptive method. The data collection techniques used in this study are interviews, observation, and literature review. The data analysis technique used in this study involves identifying the internal factors causing changes in the Kaili language. The results of this study reveal the presence of internal factors of language change, namely (1) phonetic assimilation, (2) analogy, (3) simplification or elimination of elements considered less important, and (4) innovation.