Discovering Nominal Constructions Through Behavioral Profiles: The Case of Akan ⁠

This study demonstrates how nominal constructions can be discovered empirically through multivariate statistical techniques, such as the Behavioral Profiles (BP) approach, by providing a usage-based constructional account of NPs in the Asante Twi variety of Akan (Niger-Congo, Kwa). Using a sample of 3,002NPs drawn from a two-hundred thousand‑word spoken corpus, BP was used to systematically identify, classify and profile the usage patterns and distributional features of NPs. The results indicated that Akan NPs cluster into three major nominal constructions: determiner constructions, modifier constructions, and bare nominal constructions. Within these nominal constructions, eight specific sub-constructions were identified corresponding to core functions such as determination, quantification, possession, and categorization. Constructions in the bare nominal group showed overall highest frequency, and stable distribution across genres and modes, indicating that they are the entrenched nominal schema in the Akan nominal network. By contrast, minimally elaborated NPs, such as single determiner constructions, occurred more in dialogic genres, whereas more elaborated NPs such as multi-modifier constructions were more prominent in monologic genres. Methodologically, this study illustrates how multivariate statistical techniques can enhance the objectivity and descriptive adequacy of construction identification. Theoretically, it contributes to understanding the grammar of NPs in Akan from a usage-based constructional perspective.