Argument Structure of Classifier Predicates: Canonical and Non-canonical Mappings in Four Sign Languages

Vadim Kimmelman,Lianne Vink,Enoch O Aboh,Roland Pfau,Connie De Vos,Vanja De Lint,Marloes Oomen

doi:10.1515/opli-2019-0018

Abstract

AbstractWe analyze argument structure of whole-entity and handling classifier predicates in four sign languages (Russian Sign Language, Sign Language of the Netherlands, German Sign Language, and Kata Kolok) using parallel datasets (retellings of the Canary Row cartoons). We find that all four languages display a systematic, or canonical, mapping between classifier type and argument structure, as previously established for several sign languages: whole-entity classifier predicates are mostly used intransitively, while handling classifier predicates are used transitively. However, our data sets also reveal several non-canonical mappings which we address in turn. First, it appears that whole-entity classifier predicates can be used unergatively, rather than unaccusatively, contrary to expectations. Second, our data contain some transitive uses of whole-entity classifier predicates. Finally, we find that handling classifier predicates can express various complex event structures. We discuss what these findings imply for existing theories of classifier predicates in sign languages.

Highlights

Language is all about predication: all languages use predicates to relate entities to events and/or properties
We find that all four languages display a systematic, or canonical, mapping between classifier type and argument structure, as previously established for several sign languages: whole-entity classifier predicates are mostly used intransitively, while handling classifier predicates are used transitively
The analysis of the data revealed that, similar to what previous research had indicated for other sign languages, NGT, DGS, Russian Sign Language (RSL) and KK mostly use whole-entity classifier predicates intransitively, and handling classifier predicates transitively

Summary

Introduction

Language is all about predication: all languages use predicates to relate entities ( referred to as arguments) to events and/or properties. Predicates can be said to have an argument structure: the number and types of arguments they require and how these are licensed in syntax. For instance, that different verb classes must be distinguished and that argument structure alternations occur in both spoken and signed languages (Kegl 1990; De Lint 2018; Kimmelman 2018). Approaching the study of argument structure from the perspective of sign languages, one is quickly confronted with the case of classifier predicates. Classifier predicates are ubiquitous in sign languages, yet their nature is the subject of ongoing debate (see, for instance, Zwitserlood 2003 vs Schembri 2003).

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