Decomposing definiteness: Evidence from Chuj

Abstract This article explores the realization of definiteness in Chuj, an underdocumented Mayan language. I show that Chuj provides support for recent theories distinguish between weak and strong definite descriptions (e.g., Schwarz 2009, 2013; Arkoh Matthewson Hanink 2018; Jenks 2018). A set morphemes called “noun classifiers” contribute a uniqueness presupposition, composing directly with nominals to form definites. To definites, two pieces are required: (i) noun classifier, which again contributes (ii) extra morphology anaphoricity presupposition. definites thus provide explicit evidence decompositional account as also advocated 2018. then extend this analysis third person pronouns, realized bare classifiers, propose come guises depending on their use. On one hand, based previous work (Postal 1966, Cooper 1979, Heim 1990), argue classifier pronouns can sometimes be E-type pronouns: determiners combine covert index-introducing predicate. In such cases, represent description. other argue, diagnostics established Bi 2019, arise result NP ellipsis (Elbourne 2001, 2005). reflect