Article

Name: Modal-comparative constructions with the semantics of seemingness in the Tuvan language

Authors: Lyudmila A. Shamina, Aziyana V. Bayyr-ool

Institute of Philology of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation

In the section On the 100th anniversary of the birth of Professor M. I. Cheremisina

Abstract:

The paper examines analytical, synthetic, and lexical means of expressing modal-comparative semantics in the Tuvan language. Complex analytical constructions encompass constructions containing the first participial component, modal operators deg ‘as if,’ yshkash ‘as if,’ and the verb bol ‘to be’ in the adverbial form on -(Y)p: boop. Simple synthetic forms include the verb predicate with the affix -ZYg. Lexical means include verbs denoting pretended behavior, also characterized by the meaning of a hypothetical comparison, forming the foundation for the semantics of pretense. Constructions with modal operators deg ‘as if’, yshkash ‘as if,’ and the predicate with the affix -ZYg are used to express a comparison with an imaginary standard (an unreliable comparison). The construction with the word boop and special verbs of pretended behavior are also distinguished by a comparative meaning in their semantics. Analytical and synthetic structures containing modal operators of appearance indicate the inclusion of the perceiving subject’s worldview and personal experiences in linguistic reflection. The meaning of an unreliable comparison is the basis for the formation of the meaning of seemingness. The construction Tv=GAn + yshkash/deg conveys the semantics of seemingness without any additional nuances. Verb forms with the affix -ZYg express the semantics of seemingness based on the speaker’s emotions and imagination. The construction Tv=GAn + boop identifies the object of comparison with the standard and expresses an apparent feigned simulative action.

Keywords: Tuvan language, modal-comparative constructions, the meaning of seemingness, comparison, subject of comparison, standard of comparison, parameter of comparison, participles, postposition, affix, verbs of behavior

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