Difference between revisions of "Lenition"
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| − | Lenition is an [[Initial Consonant Mutation]] which "softens" the sound of the first [[consonant]] in a word. It is used to mark certain [[Morphology (definition)|morphological]] contrasts and to mark [[Inflection (definition)||inflection]]. It also inaccurately known as [[aspiration]] (which is the term used for a phonological phenomenon involving a burst of air). we will use the more correct term here. | + | Lenition is an [[Initial Consonant Mutation]] which "softens" the sound of the first [[Consonant (definition)|consonant]] in a word. It is used to mark certain [[Morphology (definition)|morphological]] contrasts and to mark [[Inflection (definition)||inflection]]. It also inaccurately known as [[aspiration]] (which is the term used for a phonological phenomenon involving a burst of air). we will use the more correct term here. |
==Basic phenomenon== | ==Basic phenomenon== | ||
Revision as of 17:11, 4 September 2009
Lenition is an Initial Consonant Mutation which "softens" the sound of the first consonant in a word. It is used to mark certain morphological contrasts and to mark |inflection. It also inaccurately known as aspiration (which is the term used for a phonological phenomenon involving a burst of air). we will use the more correct term here.
Contents
Basic phenomenon
Orthographic Changes
For most letters, lenition is indicated by putting an <h> after the first consonant in the word. For example, when the word caora "sheep" follows the feminine article a' , it is lenited and is written a' chaora.
l,n,r which are subject to lenition phonologically (see below) show no orthographic change.
Phonological Changes
Initial <sp>, <st>, <sg>, and sometimes <sn> (depending upon the dialect) do not undergo lenition.
Lenition Triggers
- certain articles:
- intensifiers: glè, ro
