Licensing unergative objects in ergative languages: The view from Polynesian
Date
2022-05-20
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Syntax
Abstract
Transitive and unergative verbs have long received a uniform syntactic analysis, where they differ in whether an overt object is present (in transitives) or absent (in unergatives). We examine how objects of unergative verbs are case licensed when they are present, focusing on a contrast between two related Polynesian languages: Samoan and Niuean. Both languages have ergative case systems, with subjects of intransitive verbs receiving absolutive case. When unergatives have an overt object, however, a difference emerges. In Samoan, ergative case is absent: the subject of a transitivized unergative is absolutive, and the object receives “middle case.” In Niuean, the resulting transitive exhibits an ergative–absolutive frame. Working within a split-vP system, we propose that the contrast between Samoan and Niuean results from the interaction of three parametric differences. This comparative analysis highlights the importance of considering unergative constructions when determining the underlying syntax of any given case system.
Description
This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Tollan, Rebecca & Massam, Diane. 2022. Licensing unergative objects in ergative languages: The view from Polynesian. Syntax, 25. 242– 275. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/synt.12232, which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1111/synt.12232. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions. This article may not be enhanced, enriched or otherwise transformed into a derivative work, without express permission from Wiley or by statutory rights under applicable legislation. Copyright notices must not be removed, obscured or modified. The article must be linked to Wiley’s version of record on Wiley Online Library and any embedding, framing or otherwise making available the article or pages thereof by third parties from platforms, services and websites other than Wiley Online Library must be prohibited. This article will be embargoed until 05/20/2024.
Keywords
transitivity, unergatives, case, cognate objects, ergativity, Polynesian languages
Citation
Tollan, Rebecca & Massam, Diane. 2022. Licensing unergative objects in ergative languages: The view from Polynesian. Syntax, 25. 242– 275. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/synt.12232