The sigmatic perfect 𗭪 sji2 in Tangut and its grammaticalization

Abstract

The Tangut verbal suffix 𗭪 sji ² functions as both a nominalizer and a tense-aspect-modality-evidentiality (TAME) marker, of which the latter is controversially analyzed as either Perfective or Inferential evidential. Based on a detailed philological investigation, it is argued that the primary TAME function of 𗭪 sji ² is Perfect, from which it is grammaticalized to Immediate Future, and is thus compatible with the proper Future marker 𗗟 ˑjij ¹ . In either case, the Inferential reading as previously noted is merely a natural semantic extension, while other evidential sources and accesses may also be involved. Finally, comparisons with the Inferential suffixes in modern Gyalrongic languages suggests a more complicated history of the sigmatic verbal suffix.