Exploring variation and change in a small-scale Indigenous society: the case of (s) in Piraha

Author(s)

Sadlier-Brown, Emily ; Salles, Raiane ; Salomon, Isabel

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: LINGUISTICS VANGUARD; v. 8, p. 11-pg., 2022-09-05.

Abstract

We present a preliminary quantitative analysis of (s) variation in Piraha. Previous research noted a gender difference in (s) use in which women use [h] in environments where men use [s]. Using word list data, we analyze (s) rates among three men and three women. Our results indicate that women do utilize [h] more than men, but neither use one variant categorically. Furthermore, (s) is more phonetically variable, and varies in more environments, than previously described. We argue that (s) is undergoing lenition from [s] to [h], and that this change is led by women. This suggests the "female lead" found in many sound change studies is not restricted to the West. The pattern is even more striking because social and cultural factors operate very differently in the Piraha context. We evaluate whether current explanations for the female lead in sound change are applicable in Piraha. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/11693-7 - The expression of recursion in Pirahã: documentation, description and analysis (Mura)
• Grantee: Glauber Romling da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral