Forms and Meanings of Profanity and Insults in the Bajau Language in Torosiaje Laut Village, Popayato District, Pohuwato Regency

Abstract

This study aims to describe the forms, meanings, and underlying factors regarding the use of profanity and insults in the Bajau language in Torosiaje Laut Village, Popayato District, Pohuwato Regency. The study employs a qualitative descriptive method with a sociolinguistic approach. Data were obtained from the speech of Bajau speakers using non-participatory observation, in-depth interviews, recording, and note-taking techniques. Data analysis involved identifying, classifying, and describing the forms, meanings, and underlying factors of profanity and insult usage based on field data. The results reveal 43 data points, comprising 20 forms of profanity and 23 forms of insults. Formally, these expressions appear as words (including monomorphemic and polymorphemic forms), phrases, and clauses. Semantically, profanity and insults in the Bajau language utilize both denotative and connotative meanings, associating the subject with animals, physical conditions, and matters considered taboo within the community. The factors underlying their use include emotion and familiarity; emotional expression serves as an outlet for frustration, whereas familiarity-based usage occurs in social interactions to strengthen relationships and solidarity among the Bajau people