open access

https://doi.org/10.14943/106653

https://hdl.handle.net/2115/89070

Distinctions of Purposive Forms and their Functions in Tungusic on the Basis of its Geographical Distribution

日本語

geographical distribution

2023-03-20

Japan Association of Northern Language Studies

Northern Language Studies

13

119-141

Taking four grammatical functions of purposive forms (i. motion purposive, ii. general purposive, iii. intentionality and iv. imperative) into account, this paper aims to concentrate on distinctions of purposive forms and their functions among Tungusic in accordance with its geographical distribution. Converb in *-mi is confirmed to function as a motion purposive marker in all Tungusic languages, but, in Manchu and Sibe, both motion purposive and general purposive can be marked by the converbal ending -m(ə). Tungusic in Russia commonly possesses specific purposive converbs, whereas such purposive converbal endings do not exist in Solon, Manchu, Sibe on the Chinese side. In addition, it deserves to mention that there is a difference in the forms of purposive converbs between North Tungusic (Evenki, Even, Negidal) and East Tungusic (Nanay, Orochi, Udihe, Uilta). Specifically, North Tungusic (Evenki, Even, Negidal) commonly retains purposive converbal ending -dAA-PERS. It not only combines with DO verbs to denote intentionality but also functions as future imperative. In East Tungusic languages (Nanay, Orochi, Udihe, Uilta), different type of purposive converbs not corresponding with -dAA-PERS in the 1st group of Tungusic on the Russian side but related to designative case are existent. They also combine with DO verbs to express intentionality in Nanay, Udihe and Uilta but do not serve as future imperative forms in the entire East Tungusic languages. Lastly, South Tungusic (Solon, Manchu, Sibe), spoken on Chinese territories, do not have purposive converbs verified in North and East Tungusic languages and, instead, purposive postposition is used to express motion and non-motion purposive. It does not serve as an element of intentionality and imperative. In terms of intentionality, they have in common that a speech verb is used in the expression. In conclusion, this study raises a possibility that areal factor is attributed to variations of purposive elements and their functions in the Tungusic languages.

紀要論文

Version of Record

2185-7121

AA12516968