Serial Verb Constructions in Hmong: Resultatives and Consequentials

Serial verb constructions (SVCs) are a type of complex predicate found in Hmong where the verb merges not only with an object but also with a VP complement. A feature-based approach is introduced in this thesis to account for Hmong SVCs based on c-selectional and inflectional features. Two structures are proposed to differentiate consequential SVCs and resultative SVCs in Hmong. The proposed analysis casts tense, aspect, and modality as functional projections of the clause in Hmong. Because Hmong is analytic and lacks inflectional morphology, strong features motivate movement. Finally negation, control, and abstract Case assignment and ECM are discussed for SVCs and causative verbs in Hmong.

Thesis Author: Cooper-Leavitt, Jamison

Year Completed: 2006

Committee Members: Alan D. Manning, John Robertson

Thesis Chair: Deryle W. Lonsdale