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Concernee-Concern constructions
A comparative study of external possession in the Bantu languages
- Source: Studies in Language. International Journal sponsored by the Foundation “Foundations of Language”, Volume 44, Issue 1, May 2020, p. 70 - 94
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- 06 May 2020
Abstract
Abstract
This paper provides an analysis of the phenomenon commonly known as external possession in the Bantu languages. On the basis of comparative data, I argue for a prototype approach to the intricate problem of determining the conditions of use of such constructions, which I rename Concernee-Concern constructions, introducing two new terms for the thematic roles involved. Situations can be expressed by means of Concernee-Concern construction if they correspond to the prototypical situation that involves somebody’s body part being affected by an action, or if they show a family resemblance to this situation. I argue against the relevance of alienability. The paper also provides a formal typology of Concernee-Concern constructions in the Bantu languages.