On the Syntax and Semantics of Negation in Salish

Abstract

This paper examines the syntax and semantics of negation across Salish. Three widespread and one geographically restricted pattern are distinguished across the family. Two of the widespread patterns (A and B), as well as the restricted pattern (B′), involve a negative predicate selecting for a clausal complement. In pattern A, the negated clause is nominalized: I analyze this as a case of negative existential quantification over minimal situations. In Patterns B and B′, the negated clause takes conjunctive (i.e., subjunctive) morphology: I analyze these patterns as cases of simple (propositional) negation. The development of monoclausal (Pattern C) negation is then examined in several branches of the family. The paper concludes with some remarks about the typological and theoretical status of the various Salish negation patterns.

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