Studies on Grammaticalization

The book Studies on Grammaticalization delves into the theoretical frameworks surrounding grammaticalization theory, addressing significant issues that have emerged in the field. It presents a comprehensive examination of various trends, drawing evidence from both well-known and lesser-studied languages. The authors argue that grammaticalization is a dynamic process, revealing how grammars evolve continuously along diachronic paths that are recognized across languages. This exploration highlights the importance of grammaticalization in the broader context of language typology and functional linguistics over the past thirty years.

In Studies on Grammaticalization, contributions from various scholars illuminate central debates within the theory, including the directionality of grammaticalization, the interplay between grammaticalization and linguistic constructions, and the phenomenon of multiple grammaticalization. Each chapter provides empirical evidence from a range of grammatical domains, such as adpositions, numeral classifiers, honorifics, and more. This multifaceted approach not only enriches the theoretical discourse but also emphasizes the diverse manifestations of grammaticalization across different languages.

The book also showcases empirical investigations from several understudied languages, such as Nanafwe, Maltese, Manambu, and various Chibchan and Siouan languages. By bringing these languages into the conversation, Studies on Grammaticalization expands the understanding of grammaticalization theory and encourages future research in areas that have previously been overlooked.