HILL MARI SUFFIX -RAK: COMPARATIVE AND ATTENUATIVE CONTEXTS

Abstract

The article analyzes the use of the Hill Mari suffix - rak (- räk ). First of all, this suffix functions as a degree marker of an adjective or an adverb in comparative constructions. Secondly, it may indicate that an individual has some property not to a full degree, i.e. jasə̑ ‘ill’ and jasə̑ - rak (ill-cmpr) ‘somewhat ill’. Apart from adjectives, suffix - rak may combine with verbs, mainly with negative forms. In this case, the form with - rak means that the new state has not been reached yet. In some idiolects - rak may also combine with positive verb forms in the attenuative meaning. The article investigates restrictions on the compatibility of the suffix - rak in the attenuative meaning. This meaning is only possible with adjectives of closed scales, i.e. having a fixed maximal or minimal limit (for example, nužda ‘poor’). Combining with adjectives of open scales (for example, kužə̑ ‘long’) - rak indicates a slight excess of a property compared to some standard, which may be known from the context. Moreover, the article discusses the use of - rak with verbs. Our analysis is based on the actional interpretation of verbs. We consider positive and negative forms separately. The suffix - rak combines with negative forms of verbs that are interpreted as entry-into-a-state (ES). The attenuative meaning of - rak with positive verbal forms is allowed by some speakers in combination with some verbs of stative, punctual, and strong telic classes.