Abstract
This paper uses the example of the Modern English Vowel Shift Rule to show that the constraints available in Lexical Phonology can combat potential problems of excessive abstractness. Separate tense-vowel and lax-vowel VSRs are formulated; both are ordered on cyclic stratum 1 of a two-level Lexical Phonology. The Strict Cyclicity Condition prohibits the application of either VSR in underived environments, while in derived environments tense-vowel VSR is fed by the tensing rules, and lax-vowel VSR by the laxing rules. This analysis solves the long-standing problem of free rides through Vowel Shift, and reveals a principled division in the class of Modern English strong verbs. Further related revisions, involving the status of English diphthongs and the derivation of [jū] in assume, cube, etc., are also proposed.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
