EXPLORING THE RULES GOVERNING THE CREATION OF INTERROGATIVE QUESTIONS IN THE PASHTO LANGUAGE

Abstract

This study investigates the syntactic rules governing the formation of interrogative questions in Pashto. Using a qualitative research approach, the researchers conducted a focus group with six participants from various regions of the Malakand Division, along with insights from professors in the Pashto department at the University of Malakand. This research examines the use of interrogative words such as کله (when), څه (what), چرته (where), and څنګه (how), کوم (which) and څوک (who) to highlight the syntactic structure of questions in Pashto. It emphasizes the importance of word order in conveying clear meanings and distinguishing between question and statement forms. The findings reveal that while څنګه, کله, څه, څوک, چرته, and کوم primarily function as interrogatives, they do not move to the CP as in English but remain in-situ. In running speech, some Pashtun speakers, for various reasons, may misplace these interrogatives, creating confusion. However, this study confirms the exact location of each of the interrogatives mentioned through a set formula. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of Pashto syntax, especially interrogative question creation and highlights the role of syntax in effective communication in the language. This study will help future researchers of other languages use the formulas developed here to observe how such interrogatives are produced in their languages. This set of formulas will also help computational linguists in designing tools for textual analysis.