Standard Comparison References for Verbs Meaning Negative Impact on the Object in the Yakut Language and Literature

Abstract

Semantic studies of verbal lexemes as a special class of words that are significant and central in the sentence remain an urgent issue in modern linguistics. The article reveals the functioning of standards of comparison (the term introduced be Maya Cheremisina to denote common natural references used in comparative constructions to evaluate, estimate or grade the effect caused by an action) with the verbs meaning “negative impact on the object”. The study is based on the material of the Yakut language and literature. The paper uses a lexico-semantic approach and the method of continuous sampling for collecting the material from lexicographic sources and fiction.Verbs of physical negative impact on the object are divided into the following subgroups: 1) verbs damaging an object; 2) verbs striking an object; 3) verbs of great impact on the object, harming it up to bringing it to death. In comparative constructions with the verbs of this lexical-semantic group two types prevail: 1) constructions using the affix -lyy; 2) constructions with the postposition kurduk ʽas if, likeʼ. In comparative constructions, the situational-emotional type of comparison is more common. Standards of comparison are used mainly when describing a mental state, various situations or the appearance of something. Verbs with the meaning of striking as a standard of comparison in the Yakut language are mainly used to describe sudden shock or confusion. Verbs with the meaning 'beat with a whip, rod or willow' and verbs with the meaning ʽsting, buttʼ are compared to an action that occurs all of a sudden, impetuously. Verbs with the meaning ʽhit, prick, stab a thing with an objectʼ are used when comparing an action with a description of any sound, noise or physiological actions that happen with the body. Verbs with the meaning 'deteriorate an inanimate object or damage some part of it' are mainly used to describe the appearance of something.