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6 Nasals and nasalization

  • John Hajek
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Abstract

The Romance languages have long provided a useful laboratory for the exploration of nasals and nasalization-related phenomena. In this chapter we provide an overview of nasal consonant and vowel systems from three different perspectives: (a) synchronic, (b) diachronic, and (c) typological. The first part focusses on nasal consonant systems today, as well as related assimilation and sound change processes underway. We then look at nasal vowel systems as well as the morphophonology of nasal consonant and vowel alternations. In the second part, our focus is on the historical development of both nasal consonants and vowels from Latin until today. Finally, attention is given to some of the typological characteristics of nasalization processes and their development over time in Romance.

Abstract

The Romance languages have long provided a useful laboratory for the exploration of nasals and nasalization-related phenomena. In this chapter we provide an overview of nasal consonant and vowel systems from three different perspectives: (a) synchronic, (b) diachronic, and (c) typological. The first part focusses on nasal consonant systems today, as well as related assimilation and sound change processes underway. We then look at nasal vowel systems as well as the morphophonology of nasal consonant and vowel alternations. In the second part, our focus is on the historical development of both nasal consonants and vowels from Latin until today. Finally, attention is given to some of the typological characteristics of nasalization processes and their development over time in Romance.

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