Paradigmatic heterogeneity and homogenization

Abstract

Abstract This paper analyzes the temporal dynamics of the leveling of vocalic and consonantal patterns of allomorphy in Middle and Early New High German. Bayesian modeling is employed to establish reliable relative chronologies between analogical changes affecting different parts of the verbal system. While clear chronologies cannot be established for all change types, results robustly indicate that changes in past tense form of certain verbs precede changes in present tense forms. This finding is compatible with a view where paradigmatic heterogeneity inhibits simplification processes even when its locus is outside of the area targeted by change.