On relative clauses and related constructions in Yaqui
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Lilián Guerrero
Abstract
This paper examines the form and function of relative clauses in Yaqui. Two major types of relative clauses are identified, subject relatives marked by -me and non-subject relatives marked by -’u. Additionally, there are three structure types which closely resemble relative units: ‘non-restrictive’ relative clauses, the nominalized complement of certain matrix predicates, and the complement of a seem-like verb. Based on the assumption that nominalization is a gradient phenomenon (Comrie & Thompson 2007; Koptjevskaja-Tamm 1993), it is proposed that Yaqui relative clauses establish different points inside the continuum, i.e. from clauses genuinely modifying a referential element to different degrees of clausal nominalization governed by a main predicate. Functionally, it is shown that true relatives introduce or further establish new information into discourse, whereas non-modifying nominal clauses serve as either appositive units (Keenan 1985; Carlson 1977), or as a core argument. Keywords: relative clauses; nominalization; complementation; Yaqui; UtoAztecan
Abstract
This paper examines the form and function of relative clauses in Yaqui. Two major types of relative clauses are identified, subject relatives marked by -me and non-subject relatives marked by -’u. Additionally, there are three structure types which closely resemble relative units: ‘non-restrictive’ relative clauses, the nominalized complement of certain matrix predicates, and the complement of a seem-like verb. Based on the assumption that nominalization is a gradient phenomenon (Comrie & Thompson 2007; Koptjevskaja-Tamm 1993), it is proposed that Yaqui relative clauses establish different points inside the continuum, i.e. from clauses genuinely modifying a referential element to different degrees of clausal nominalization governed by a main predicate. Functionally, it is shown that true relatives introduce or further establish new information into discourse, whereas non-modifying nominal clauses serve as either appositive units (Keenan 1985; Carlson 1977), or as a core argument. Keywords: relative clauses; nominalization; complementation; Yaqui; UtoAztecan
Chapters in this book
- Prelim pages i
- Table of contents v
- map vii
- Introduction ix
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Part I. Diachrony, typology, and theory
- Toward a diachronic typology of relative clause 3
- The evolution of language and elaborateness of grammar 27
- Some issues in the linking between syntax and semantics in relative clauses 47
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Part II. Uto-Aztecan
- Relative clauses and nominalizations in Yaqui 67
- On relative clauses and related constructions in Yaqui 97
- From demonstrative to relative marker to clause linker 127
- Functional underpinnings of diachrony in relative clause formation 147
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Part III. Elsewhere in the Americas
- Clauses as noun modifiers in Toba (Guaycuruan) 173
- Between headed and headless relative clauses 191
- Relative clauses in Seri 213
- Relative clauses in Gavião of Rondônia 243
- Relative clauses in Yucatec Maya 253
- Questionable relatives 269
- Language and language family index 301
- Name index 303
- Subject index 305
Chapters in this book
- Prelim pages i
- Table of contents v
- map vii
- Introduction ix
-
Part I. Diachrony, typology, and theory
- Toward a diachronic typology of relative clause 3
- The evolution of language and elaborateness of grammar 27
- Some issues in the linking between syntax and semantics in relative clauses 47
-
Part II. Uto-Aztecan
- Relative clauses and nominalizations in Yaqui 67
- On relative clauses and related constructions in Yaqui 97
- From demonstrative to relative marker to clause linker 127
- Functional underpinnings of diachrony in relative clause formation 147
-
Part III. Elsewhere in the Americas
- Clauses as noun modifiers in Toba (Guaycuruan) 173
- Between headed and headless relative clauses 191
- Relative clauses in Seri 213
- Relative clauses in Gavião of Rondônia 243
- Relative clauses in Yucatec Maya 253
- Questionable relatives 269
- Language and language family index 301
- Name index 303
- Subject index 305
