In this paper I focus on the history of Lithuanian and Latvian round numerals. There is evidence to suggest that the original IE. forms may have been the outcome of a prehistorical semantic shift from substantives to numerals. Baltic languages support this view displaying archaic noun-like features in both morphology and syntax. A diachronical review from the first written documents reveals that other changes have occurred involving morpho-phonology, syntax and semantics. According to chronological data, I suggest a possible interpretation of the historical interplay among the above-mentioned phenomena. Then some Baltic peculiarities in the IE. context are pointed out, as well as the main historical divergences between Lithuanian and Latvian.
The Interplay of Diachronical Changes in Lithuanian and Latvian Round Numerals
CERRI, ADRIANO
2012-01-01
Abstract
In this paper I focus on the history of Lithuanian and Latvian round numerals. There is evidence to suggest that the original IE. forms may have been the outcome of a prehistorical semantic shift from substantives to numerals. Baltic languages support this view displaying archaic noun-like features in both morphology and syntax. A diachronical review from the first written documents reveals that other changes have occurred involving morpho-phonology, syntax and semantics. According to chronological data, I suggest a possible interpretation of the historical interplay among the above-mentioned phenomena. Then some Baltic peculiarities in the IE. context are pointed out, as well as the main historical divergences between Lithuanian and Latvian.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
