Towards diachronic word classes universals

Matthias Gerner*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapters, Conference Papers, Creative and Literary WorksRGC 32 - Refereed conference paper (with host publication)peer-review

Abstract

In this paper we examine the correlation of variables that influence the process of grammaticalization or lexicalization of a word class. Word classes change when all members change in a coordinated way. From the study of 24 word classes originating from representative languages in the world, we derive three universal tendencies. The strongest of these tendencies correlates the word class size and the new acquired meanings: The greater the size of the target word class, the lower the number of new acquired meanings.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHistorical Linguistics 2015
EditorsMichela Cennamo, Claudia Fabrizio
PublisherJohn Benjamins Publishing Company
Pages501-517
ISBN (Electronic)978-9-02-726245-5, 9789027262455
ISBN (Print)978-9-02-720325-0, 9789027203250
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2019
Event22nd International Conference on Historical Linguistics - Naples, Italy
Duration: 27 Jul 201531 Jul 2015

Publication series

NameCurrent issues in linguistic theory
Volume348
ISSN (Print)0304-0763

Conference

Conference22nd International Conference on Historical Linguistics
PlaceItaly
CityNaples
Period27/07/1531/07/15

Bibliographical note

Full text of this publication does not contain sufficient affiliation information. The Research Unit(s) information for this record is based on the then academic department affiliation of the author(s).

Research Keywords

  • reanalysis
  • historical linguistics
  • typology
  • universal tendency

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