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Classifiers and Plurality: evidence from a deictic classifier language

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Abstract

This paper investigates the semantic contribution of plural morphology and its interaction with classifiers in Kadiwéu. We show that Kadiwéu, a Waikurúan language spoken in South America, is a classifier language similar to Chinese but classifiers are an obligatory ingredient of all determiner-like elements, such as quantifiers, numerals, and wh-words for arguments. What all elements with classifiers have in common is that they contribute an atomized/individualized interpretation of the NP. Furthermore, this paper revisits the relationship between classifiers and number marking and challenges the common assumption that classifiers and plurals are mutually exclusive.

Keywords: plural morphology, classifier language, number marking, kadiweu

How to Cite:

Sandalo, F. & Michelioudakis, D., (2016) “Classifiers and Plurality: evidence from a deictic classifier language”, Baltic International Yearbook of Cognition, Logic and Communication 1(2016). doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/1944-3676.1112

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