Inflection and Derivation in Guarijio: A continuum approach

Abstract

This thesis provides a theoretical discussion concerning the three approaches that have been suggested by linguists regarding derivative and inflectional morphology. These approaches refer to the relation between derivation and inflection. To begin with, the dichotomy approach makes a clear-cut distinction between derivation and inflection. Under this approach, a set of criteria have been suggested to identify the morphemes that belong to each category. This approach has failed to enclose those instances in which the morphemes do not fit exclusively to derivation, or inflection. Instead, these morphemes are considered exceptions, or particular cases. As a response to the dichotomy approach’s inability to clear up these deviations, two more approaches have been suggested.