Details

General

Morphemic form: V{-kaa}V
New orthography: -kaavoq
Old orthography: -kâvoĸ
Combinations: Click here
Constituents: V{-kaq}V, V{-a}V,
Left sandhi:
Truncative,
Right sandhi:
Default/none,
Inflection sandhi:
Default/none,
Stem type: Vowel stem
Diathesis: None
Valency change: Preserving
Valency:
None,

Description and behaviour

Form and usage:

The meaning of this affix is difficult to pin down exactly, because the meaning of the constituent V{-a}V in particular is vague. Schultz-Lorentzen (1958) describes it as 'Subject Vb suddenly but continuously or in greater number'. Hence, it seems to denote a sudden change of state, followed by a new, continuous state of being, or a sudden change of state for a larger number of subjects. In the latter case, the Subject will of course be in plural.


Meanings and examples

  • assakaavoq, it rolls around
    [4]

    E.g. a wheel. Compare assakarpoq, 'it turns/rolls over'. Thus, this example is of the 'continuously' meaning.

  • nillikaapput, they float to the surface
    [4]

    I.e., fish, in a great number. Compare nillikarpoq, 'it floats to the surface'. Thus, this example is of the 'greater number' meaning.


References