'Akuchanywa apha please' No peeing here please: The language of signage in Cape Town
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2010
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South African Journal of African Languages
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
This article examines the language used on both formal and informal signage in Cape Town. Using the theory of geosemiotics with examples of actual signage, I discuss the semantic vulnerability of language when a sign is used outside its intended context; the sociolinguistic implications of poor translations; the phenomenon of monolingual and bilingual signage as opposed to trilingual signage; the symbolic hegemony of English and Afrikaans over Xhosa; and the lessons that can be learnt from language used on informal township signs and advertisements.
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Dowling, T. (2010). ‘Akuchanywa apha please’No peeing here please: The language of signage in Cape Town. South African Journal of African Languages, 30(2), 192-208.