Temporal uses of definite articles and demonstratives in Pomak (Slavic, Greece)

Abstract

This paper offers an analysis of the three Pomak deictics, -s-, -t- and -n-, which are used for both spatial and temporal-modal reference in nominals. This analysis is based on first-hand data from Pomak, a Balkan Slavic vernacular spoken in Greece (Xanthi prefecture). Following Culioli's framework (1971, 1978, 1990) I propose that in this Pomak vernacular the spatial set of uses is triggered when the process situation is identical to the utterance situation (Sit2 = Sit0), in which case the three deictics are organized around the distance between the referent and the speaker or the addressee, as in other person oriented systems, described e.g. by Anderson and Keenan (1985). When the process situation is different (Sit2 ≠ Sit0) or has no relation (Sit2 ω Sit0) to the utterance situation, the temporal-modal set of uses is triggered, with a distinction between realis (with a further past vs. future distinction) vs. irrealis. These deictics also extend to clause-combining, as they partake in the formation of relative pronouns and temporal subordinators. The extensive temporal uses in Xanthi Pomak are analyzed here as an innovative use of a possibility available in the diasystem and partially encountered in other closely-related Balkan Slavic languages. Beyond the interest these data present for Slavic studies, the rich temporal uses of the Pomak deictics also contribute to typological research on overtly tensed nominals, as addressed by Lecarme (1999, 2004), and Nordlinger and Sadler (2004).