This paper provides an overview ofthe interdependence between semanüc wies, discourse functions and syntactic and lexical conditions in determining the order in which postverbal objects may appear. It asserts that, whereas the order may be determined by the semanüc hierarchy of the object, non-beneficiary arguments have a relativelyfree word order. Often, the object that carries the most prominent Information will appear adjacent to the verb.

Analysis of ideophones from an extensive data set in KiVunjo‐Chaga, a Bantu language, indicates that they cannot be adequately defined solely by phonological, morphological, and syntactic characteristics. Ideophones can be viewed as a subcategory of adverbs, but they are sensitive to semantic and cultural functions.

To explain the exercise of power through the use of language and its effects on power relations and program construction, verbal interaction between three planners in two program planning meetings was analyzed. The study revealed that political relationships enacted through the use of language situated crucial planning action. Specifically, learning objectives and adult education tenets as well as ethical imperatives took shape within a socio-political context constituted by the planners' "talk." For this reason, the negotiation of power and interests was a central feature of the planning process. It can be concluded, therefore, that program construction is contingent upon communicative action. One of the implications of the study is that responsible planners must not only be aware of many levels of meaning in discourse but must also know how to use language skillfully and politically to exercise the full extent of their agency.

Current Approaches to African Linguistics (Vol. 5) Paul Newman Robert D. Botne eds. Publications in African Languages and Linguistics, 8. Dordrecht/ Providence: Foris Publications, 1989. 266 pp. $60.00 (paper) Current Approaches to African Linguistics (Vol. 6) lsabelle Haik Laurice Tuller eds. Publications in African Languages and Linguistics, 9. Dordrecht/ Providence: Foris Publications, 1989. 336 pp. $40.00 (paper)

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