Pragmatic overlap and consecutive change: The case of Hebrew (inter)subjective markers yeʃ/en matsav/sikuy

Abstract

Previous research on pragmatic overlap and change suggests that in cases in which two linguistic items evolve one after the other to express similar functions, the new form may substitute the older one, the older expression may further evolve, thereby differentiating from the newer item, or the two forms may become more alike. In this paper, we present a case attesting to a different process. In this type of path, it is the newer form that further evolves, thus “outpassing” the older expression in the subjective-intersubjective cline. The case in point is the consecutive development of the Hebrew phrases yeʃ/en sikuy/matsav (‘there is/isn't a chance/situation’). In Present-Day Hebrew, these pairs express similar subjective-modal functions referring to possibilities, yet only the relatively new pair, yeʃ/en matsav, also functions as a conventionalized intersubjective marker. We here provide a descriptive account of their development in the cline and the factors involved in the further evolution of yeʃ/en matsav. Our findings suggest that yeʃ/en matsav pragmatically outpassed their counterparts due to a semantic advantage relating to the persistence of a circumstantial meaning. Overall, this research illuminates an understudied type of development, pointing to the multifaceted nature of pragmatic change.