The Functional Evolution of '-Ppwun-' in Korean: A Grammaticalization Perspective

Abstract

This paper examines the grammatical functions of a defective noun ppwun from the perspective of grammaticalization. Ppwun synchronically functions as a sentential ending, an additive connective marker, a modality marker, or a discourse marker. Its obsolete functions as a concessive marker and a definiteness particle in the place of man in PDK are also identified diachronically. Subjectification accounts for the development into a modality marker of ppwun based on the speaker's strong commitment on the truth condition of the proposition. The evolution into the discourse marker of ppwun verifies the fortification of its subjective and procedural function toward the cohesiveness of the discourse.