Interpretation and paradigm in Iraqw number formation: between derivation and inflection.

Abstract

 Iraqw (South Cushitic, Tanzania) shows an interesting mix of properties in the multi-dimensional distinction between inflection and derivation in the domain of number expression on the noun. Morphological formation is complex with a high number of formations, both pluratives and singulatives, forming complex configurations within a lexeme with several forms co-existing and occasional stacking of morphemes. Yet all these nouns are interpreted in terms of number in just singular or plural and no semantic differentiation beyond number occurs. Such an obligatory interpretation and expression in terms of number deviates from the dominant Cushitic pattern of general number. A small number of ambinumeral nouns exist but these are not general in number. An even smaller group of nouns fall outside the number system and these latter ones are linked to their semantics: no number reference can be construed by speakers. Interestingly, there are two number suffixes that are versatile and can either indicate singular or plural depending on the other number forms in the paradigm. With both singulatives and pluratives in the system, their existence in a particular lexeme determines the number interpretation of the underived base. The necessity of number expression has no correlation in syntax. There is no agreement to number in syntax and what was analysed as such in adjectives is actually expressive and indicates distributivity.