Accommodating number neutrality in Alasha Mongolian: markedness and semantic interpretation
Abstract Morpho-syntactic markedness for number does not always seem to align with a singular or plural semantics. I show that in Alasha Mongolian (Mongolic) unmarked inanimate nouns are number neutral whereas their animate counterparts are strictly singular (cp. Bylinina and Podobryaev 2020). Unmarked inanimates, however, can be strictly singular if modified by a subclass of APs (e.g. big) and numerals. Plural-marked nouns can be exclusively or inclusively plural depending on upward/downward entailingness (like English). Adopting Harbour’s (2007, 2011, 2014) theory of number, I propose that the generalizations are best explained if unmarked number neutral nouns lack NumP, which would otherwise mark the NP for [$\pm $atomic], whereas their animate counterparts always project it. I argue that inanimates may project NumP if there is morpho-syntactic evidence to do so (some APs, overt plural-marking, and numerals). In addition, I propose a new solution for the inclusive/exclusive ambiguity of the plural: it is the result of syntactically conditioned allosemy at LF. Last but not least, the results of the analysis paired with cross-linguistic observations about number give rise to a novel generalization that correlates morphological markedness and semantic interpretation.
- Research Article
- 10.3390/info16100892
- Oct 13, 2025
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This paper introduces the concept of evolving actor–network ontologies (EANO) as a new paradigm for cultural digital twins. Building on actor–network theory, EANO reframes ontologies from static representations into reflexive, dynamic structures in which semantic interpretations are continuously negotiated among heterogeneous actors. We propose a five-layer architecture that operationalizes this principle, embedding reflexivity, actor salience, and systemic parameters such as resistance and volatility directly into the ontological model. To illustrate this approach, we present minimal simulations that demonstrate how different actor constellations and systemic conditions lead to distinct patterns of semantic evolution, ranging from expert erosion to contested equilibria and balanced coexistence. Rather than serving as predictive models, these simulations exemplify how EANO captures semantic plurality and contestation within a transparent and interpretable framework. The contribution of this work is thus twofold: it provides a conceptual foundation for evolving ontologies in digital heritage and a lightweight demonstration of how such models can be instantiated and explored computationally.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/s0388-0001(79)80009-1
- Mar 1, 1979
- Language Sciences
Indefinite se vs. inanimate subjectwith reflexive
- Front Matter
1
- 10.1016/j.jsc.2004.12.001
- Mar 14, 2005
- Journal of Symbolic Computation
Integration of automated reasoning and computer algebra systems
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