The Problem of Voiced Stops in Modern Greek: A Non-Linear Approach

In this paper, I discuss the function of voiced stops in the phonology of Modern Greek, in light of new theories of marginal contrast. I argue that the complex phonetic realizations of voiced stops can best be explained with reference to multiply-linked phonological structures. I propose to enrich the underlying structures available for the representation of Greek segments, so as to include sequences of [+Nasal] and [-Nasal] linked to the same skeletal position. These new representations imply the existence of eight classes of segments, formed by single and multiple combinations of features and skeletal slots. Six of these combinations are demonstrated to exist in Greek, and the other two are shown to be excluded by universal constraints. On the basis of these configurations, predictions are made about the possible range of dialectal variations in the treatment of voiced stops. All the predicted treatments are shown to exist in the various Greek dialects.