Form of Idioms which are Susceptible to Misinterpretation by the Fans of Witimbule Programme in Radio Mambo FM

Abstract

Idioms are notoriously applicable in Witimbule Programme of Radio Mambo FM broadcast among the fans from the Luhya speaking communities to make their language native-like, for face-saving and regulation of human behavior. However, it has been found that some idioms are susceptible to misinterpretation during interlocution. The study employs relevance theory by Wilson & Sperber (2002) which explains that human mind follows the path of least effort strategy to process information and the moment it becomes complex, there is a high possibility of misinterpretation. The study adopted descriptive research design because it is within qualitative research paradigm. The sample population selected was 66 informants based on purposive sampling technique and the idioms selected were 69 by listening to Witimbule programme. It was found that the form of idioms which is susceptible to misinterpretation was proverbial followed by hyperbolic. This is because they demand extra effort to process and they are cultural specific.