1887
image of The sigmatic perfect 𗭪 sji2 in Tangut and its grammaticalization

Abstract

The Tangut verbal suffix 𗭪 functions as both a nominalizer and a tense-aspect-modality-evidentiality (TAME) marker, of which the latter is controversially analyzed as either Perfective or Inferential evidential. Based on a detailed philological investigation, it is argued that the primary TAME function of 𗭪 is Perfect, from which it is grammaticalized to Immediate Future, and is thus compatible with the proper Future marker 𗗟 . In either case, the Inferential reading as previously noted is merely a natural semantic extension, while other evidential sources and accesses may also be involved. Finally, comparisons with the Inferential suffixes in modern Gyalrongic languages suggests a more complicated history of the sigmatic verbal suffix.

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2026-07-02
2026-07-17
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  • Article Type: Research Article
Keywords: Gyalrongic ; Tangut ; inferential evidential ; perfect ; grammaticalization
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