The function and historical evolution of augments in the Bantu languages

Abstract: 

This project aims at gaining insight into the augment, a mysterious grammatical element found in the Bantu languages of Africa. The role of the augment has been compared to that of a definite article in English or French, but this comparison is at best an approximation. We will approach the topic from the different theoretical and methodological perspectives of synchronic generative grammar and historical linguistics. 

Peter Jenks

UC PI:
Peter Jenks
Department of Linguistics, UC Berkeley

Mark Van de Velde

France PI:
Mark Van de Velde
Langage, Langues et Cultures d'Afrique Noir, CNRS / Institut national des langues et civilisations orientales (Inalco)

Author: 
Peter Jenks
Mark Van de Velde
Publication date: 
July 1, 2020
Publication type: 
Funded Project