Affiliation:
1. University of Helsinki
2. HSE University
3. LLACAN, CNRS — INALCO
Abstract
Abstract
In this paper, we address valency patterns in seven Mande languages with various degrees of genealogical
proximity. Our study is based on the BivalTyp questionnaire focusing on 130 two-place predicates (Say 2020). While belonging to two distinct genetic groupings, two languages of the set, i.e. Mano
(Southern Mande) and Kpelle (Southwestern Mande), are in intense contact with one another. We found that although Mano verbal
stems are virtually unaffected by contact, the patterns of valency expression, including construction types and choice of
postposition, but also the semantics of complex verbs are strongly influenced by Kpelle. This study thus adds further evidence for
the predominance of pattern borrowing in multilingual settings.
Publisher
John Benjamins Publishing Company