Mora-nasalization of conclusive form in Ōita Dialect and its implications

Abstract

Verb conjugation systems in Kyūshū Dialects have two distinct features: the preservation of nidan (bi-grade) conjugation and the change from ichidan (mono-grade) conjugation to ragyō-godan (quinque-grade) conjugation. The former is a remnant of classical systems, whereas the latter is a result of new changes. Previous studies have deemed these features as irrelevant to each other. However, this study examines the mora-nasalization of conclusive forms in Ōita dialect and suggests that both these features are related to the avoidance of homonymic conflict between the mora-nasal conclusive form and mora-na-sal negative form.