Abstract
In Catalan, /n/ deletes in word-final position when it is preceded by a stressed vowel. In this paper, we present an analysis that combines the representations of Strict CV and the violable constraints of Optimality Theory, two rarely combined but perfectly compatible analytical tools. We propose that final /n/ floats unassociated below its C position if it cannot be licensed by a following segment. In such circumstances, an entire CV unit is left unidentified at the right edge, a situation which is penalized by the system. Still, when stress is final, this rightmost CV unit is identified by the weak branch of a trochaic foot. As a result, the /n/ may remain afloat. However, when stress is not final, the final CV remains otherwise unidentified, and so /n/ must associate to it, even though it is unlicensed.
Highlights
All consonants in Catalan may appear in word-final position
We present an analysis that combines the representations of Strict CV and the violable constraints of Optimality Theory, two rarely combined but perfectly compatible analytical tools
Word-final nasals cannot be licensed because they are not followed by any consonant; they undergo different processes of lenition, or even deletion as in Catalan
Summary
All consonants in Catalan may appear in word-final position. two of them, /ɾ/ and /n/, can undergo a process of deletion in non-verbal forms. While the deletion of /ɾ/ is largely unpredictable, with a higher number of exceptions and items showing variation, that of /n/ is the general case in the native vocabulary of the language. One may ask why in Catalan, of all the consonants that may appear in word-final position, /n/ undergoes synchronic deletion. This process is the opposite of what one would expect from the point of view of markedness: labial and palatal nasals are allowed in coda position, as are all non-coronals, but coronal nasals are banned from this position.
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