Abstract
This paper explores the syntax and semantics of two grammatical markers of future time in Gã (Niger–Congo, Kwa)–bàá- and àá-. The coexistence of àá- and bàá- over a long period, coupled with their overlapping roles, has led to some inconsistency in their analysis. I show that in modern Gã, bàá- is the most prevalent future marker, with àá- existing much less prominently alongside it. Data from natural speech and elicitation reveal that both markers have modal functions in addition to the temporal function. bàá- can also be used aspectually to mark habits. Due largely to the overwhelming frequency of the temporal function in the discourse data, I maintain that the primary function of bàá- is as a future tense marker. It is therefore not purely a modal. àá- has all but fallen out of use and has a more modal than temporal function. This study uncovers previously unreported non-temporal uses of bàá- and underscores the crucial role played by frequency in the determination of category function.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 40-72 |
Number of pages | 33 |
Journal | Acta Linguistica Hafniensia |
Volume | 54 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2022 |
Keywords
- Gã
- Kwa
- future
- modal
- tense