In Malayic languages, prefixes derived from Proto-Malayic *(mb)AR- are characterized by an unusual multifunctionality pattern. On the one hand, continuators of *(mb)AR- may encode functions that are typical of middle markers across languages. On the other hand, they are used as denominal verb formatives. The aim of this article is to provide a diachronic explanation for such an unusual combination of functions. The denominal verbalizing function of *(mb)AR- appears to be primary, and a diachronic scenario can be sketched through which a denominal verb formative has extended to cover a portion of the functional space cross-linguistically encoded by middle markers.

From verbalizer to middle marker: the diachrony of middle voice in Malayic

Andrea Sanso'
2023-01-01

Abstract

In Malayic languages, prefixes derived from Proto-Malayic *(mb)AR- are characterized by an unusual multifunctionality pattern. On the one hand, continuators of *(mb)AR- may encode functions that are typical of middle markers across languages. On the other hand, they are used as denominal verb formatives. The aim of this article is to provide a diachronic explanation for such an unusual combination of functions. The denominal verbalizing function of *(mb)AR- appears to be primary, and a diachronic scenario can be sketched through which a denominal verb formative has extended to cover a portion of the functional space cross-linguistically encoded by middle markers.
2023
2023
denominal verb formation; Malayic languages; middle; reciprocal
Karaj, David M.; Sanso', Andrea
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11383/2156613
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