This book, one of the few English language publications on indigenous languages spoken in East Africa, highlights theoretical contributions on understudied East Cushitic languages, based on extensive data. It introduces readers to important fields such as the OT phonology and morphology of Dhaasanac and discusses the syntax of negation, semantics of focus, negation and context shift. It then examines negative polarity items and context sensitivity in the Rendille, Burji, Somali and Afar languages to offer broader insights into these phenomena. Given its focus, the book will appeal to researchers and students who are interested in formal semantics, pragmatics and indigenous studies around the globe, especially those wanting to learn about East Cushitic linguistics.