Abstract
Abstract The plural suffix in nouns and adjectives in Tigre has three distinct surface forms: a VC syllable, -at/-am; a CVC syllable, -jat/-jam, and a second CVC syllable, -tat/-tam. In this paper we argue that the suffix has a single underlying form, and it manifests predictably based on the final syllable of the stem. This paper provides an account for this behavior in the framework of Optimality Theory, arguing for an underlying VC representation. Additionally, we show that the different forms of the plural suffix are at least partially motivated. Our analysis reveals a conspiracy to preserve superheavy CVVC syllables when possible, along with an emergence of the unmarked effect regarding syllabification.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Brill’s Journal of Afroasiatic Languages and Linguistics
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.