This collection aims first to establish a structure-independent, language-independent definition of pragmatic voice, and more specifically then a universal functional definition of "inverse". The grammar and pragmatic function of the four major voice constructions - direct-active, inverse, passive, antipassive - are surveyed using narrative texts from 14 languages: Koyukon (Athabascan), Plains Cree (Algonquian), Chepang (Tibeto-Burman), Squamish and Bella Coola (Salish), Sahaptin (Sahaptian), Kutenai (isolate), Surinam Carib (Carib), Spanish and Greek (Indo-European), Korean, Maasai (Nilotic), Cebuano and Karao (Philippine). The comparative quantified study of pragmatic voice functions tests the validity of a universal functional definition of voice and in particular of "inverse". The cross-language comparison of grammatical structures that code the various voice functions then lays down the foundation for a non-trivial cross-language typology of "inverse".
| ISBN: | 9789027229175 |
| Publication date: | 30th May 1994 |
| Author: | T Givón |
| Publisher: | John Benjamins Publishing Company |
| Format: | Hardback |
| Pagination: | 410 pages |
| Series: | Typological Studies in Language |
| Genres: |
Linguistics |