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Title
Abstract
Key Takeaways
Overview of Hiw Phonology
Conclusion: The Ambiguity of Complex Segments
References
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Languages and Linguistics
Phonology

Phonotactics and the prestopped velar lateral in Hiw: Resolving the ambiguity of a complex segment

Profile image of Alexandre FrançoisAlexandre François

2010

https://doi.org/10.1017/S0952675710000205
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42 pages

Abstract

Complex segments consisting of two phases are potentially ambivalent as to which phase determines their phonemic status – e.g. whether /tn/ is a stop or a nasal. This theoretical problem is addressed here with respect to a typologically unusual phoneme in Hiw, an endangered Oceanic language of Vanuatu. This complex segment, /gL/, combines a velar voiced stop and a velar lateral approximant. Similar phonemes, in the few languages which have them, have been variously described as (laterally released) stops, affricates or (prestopped) laterals. The nature of Hiw /gL/ can be established from its patterning in tautosyllabic consonant clusters. The licensing of word-initial CC clusters in Hiw complies with the Sonority Sequencing Principle, albeit with some adjustments. Consequently, the well-formedness of words like /mgLejiŋə/ ‘berserk’ relies on /gL/ being analyzed as a prestopped velar lateral approximant – the only liquid in the system.

Key takeaways
sparkles

AI

  1. The Hiw language features a unique prestopped velar lateral approximant /gL/, analyzed as a liquid.
  2. This study resolves the phonemic ambiguity of complex segments like /gL/ by examining phonotactic patterns.
  3. Hiw's consonant clusters largely comply with the Sonority Sequencing Principle (SSP), with specific language adjustments.
  4. The analysis of /gL/ reveals it patterns as a liquid, distinct from stops and affricates in Hiw.
  5. Historical data supports the modern analysis of /gL/ as deriving from earlier rhotic consonants.

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FAQs

sparkles

AI

What is the phonological status of Hiw's prestopped velar lateral consonant?add

The study identifies it as a prestopped velar lateral approximant /gP/, functioning like a liquid in sonority hierarchy.

How does Hiw's sonority treatment compare to its close relative Dorig?add

Unlike Dorig, Hiw shows adherence to the Sonority Sequencing Principle, avoiding sonority reversals in consonant clusters.

In what linguistic context does Hiw allow complex consonant clusters?add

Hiw permits tautosyllabic clusters that comply with adjusted sonority constraints, reflecting its unique phonological structure.

What acoustic properties characterize the velar lateral segment in Hiw?add

It displays a plosive onset followed by a lateral release, with duration varying between 50 and 600 ms.

How do historical factors influence the current status of the velar lateral in Hiw?add

The segment evolved from an apical trill *r, aligning phonologically with sonority controls observed in the language.

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Alexandre François
Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique / French National Centre for Scientific Research, Faculty Member
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