Article

Name: The intensity category in the Tuvan language (the case of attribute names)

Authors: Ch. S. Tsybenova

Institute for Mongolian, Buddhist and Tibetan Studies of the Siberian Branch RAS, Ulan-Ude, Russian Federation

In the section Морфология

Abstract:

This article provides a detailed analysis of the linguistic means used to express intensity in the Tuvan language, with a specific focus on the unique properties of attributes (adverbs and adjectives) having the seme of intensity in their lexical meaning. It is noted that this category has not been explored in Tuvan linguistics. In total, nine adverbs were analyzed, nuclear meanings of which contain the semes “very”, “absolutely”, “necessarily”. The article also considers some of the adjectives most commonly used in speech, outlining typical patterns and constructions. The analysis revealed a high degree of productivity among adverbs in conveying intensity within the Tuvan lexicon, demonstrating both universality and diversity. In addition, it was found that adverbs-intensifiers tend to convey the meaning of intensity explicitly. Especially characterized by specificity are figurative lexemes, such as sa / sy “thoroughly, properly, highly strongly”, čula, čaza “highly strongly”. They do not have independent functionality, but emphasize the intensity of action. Adjectives are less frequently employed as intensifiers, with some inherently conveying intensity. A prevalent structure involves a combination of two adjectives, with the first serving as intensifier: Aintens + A. The study demonstrates that the functional mechanism of adjectives-intensifiers is predominantly transfer-based, operating within established frameworks and common expressions found frequently in both informal and artistic language.

Keywords: functional grammar, emotional-evaluative vocabulary, intensity category, intensifier, adverbs-intensifiers, adjectives-intensifiers, the Tuvan language

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