Principles of Radical Cv Phonology: A Theory of Segmental and Syllabic Structure

This book presents a theory about the speech sounds that occur in human spoken and signed languages. It identifies the ultimate elements of which speech sounds consist and provides explicit structures for all speech sounds that occur in the world's languages. With numerous examples from hundreds of languages, it also provides insight into current theories of segmental structure, commonly used feature systems, and recurrent controversies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 504 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book, a culmination of 30 years of extensive research, presents a groundbreaking theory on the speech sounds that occur in both human spoken and signed languages. By identifying the fundamental building blocks of speech sounds, Harry van der Hulst proposes a revolutionary theory that recognizes only two elements: |C| and |V|. Through a concise set of first principles, the book elucidates the potential characteristics of speech sounds and offers explicit structures for all the speech sounds found across the world's languages. With an abundance of examples drawn from hundreds of languages, including Dutch, Czech, Japanese, Kabardian, Hungarian, Korean, and Zulu, the book not only sheds light on current theories of segmental structure, commonly used feature systems, and ongoing debates but also provides a rich and comprehensive exploration of the diverse linguistic landscape. This comprehensive work is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and language enthusiasts alike, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms behind speech production and the rich tapestry of human communication.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474454674