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5 Non-verbal predication in Siyuewu Khroskyabs

  • Yunfan Lai
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Abstract

This chapter examines non-verbal predication in Siyuewu Khroskyabs (SK), a West Gyalrongic language of the Trans-Himalayan family. Using data from natural narratives during fieldwork, it discusses copulae attested in SK, which are distinguished by animacy, the spatial characteristics of the subject, and the type of predication. Nominal copulae are employed in identity and inverse-possessive constructions, while locational copulae are used to convey existence, plain possession, and specific spatial relationships. Additionally, the chapter discusses the use of ideophones as predicates in certain contexts, which represents a lesser-known phenomenon from a typological point of view.

Abstract

This chapter examines non-verbal predication in Siyuewu Khroskyabs (SK), a West Gyalrongic language of the Trans-Himalayan family. Using data from natural narratives during fieldwork, it discusses copulae attested in SK, which are distinguished by animacy, the spatial characteristics of the subject, and the type of predication. Nominal copulae are employed in identity and inverse-possessive constructions, while locational copulae are used to convey existence, plain possession, and specific spatial relationships. Additionally, the chapter discusses the use of ideophones as predicates in certain contexts, which represents a lesser-known phenomenon from a typological point of view.

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