Voice-related constructions in the Austronesian languages of Flores

Abstract

This paper discusses findings of our research on voice in the Austronesian languages of Flores, Indonesia. Research reported in this paper is part of a broader inquiry into voice and voice expressions in the languages of Nusa Tenggara. We begin with a brief introduction to the typology of Flores languages and their position within the Austronesian family. We then present data showing the types of voice constructions and their properties. We claim that, while typically lacking voice morphology, Flores languages show remarkably rich voice oppositions. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of issues relating to the historical question of the total loss of the Austronesian voice system in these languages and the problem of how to best analyse the data.