Mood: Tonal and segmental realization in Edoid

Abstract

Relative to the under-analyzed West African language Emai, we describe a system of underlying tones and syllabic segments. They surface as co-exponents to characterize mood. At the underlying level we propose a predicative complex in which tones and segmental forms contrast to distinguish categories of mood that identify the reality status of clausal information, i.e. actualized vs. non-actualized. Actualized status is determined by a two-tone predicative complex: {high low} or {low high}. These tones associate to segmental material that is lexically toneless. Subject segments on the left of the tonal component express temporal distance while segments to its right convey non-future tense (past, present). Non-actualized status is conveyed by a predicative complex with either a {high} or {low} tone for grammatical subject. Contrasting with subject tone is the lexical tone of segments conveying non-tense moods. Overall, the system of predicative complexes characterizes the mood types indicative, imperative, interrogative, subjunctive, and negative. We conclude that this system reflects mood prominence and relates to mood as indicator of clause type rather than speech act type.