Gender assignment in mixed noun phrases

Studies in bilingualism, pp. 13–48

Abstract

Abstract Noun phrases (NPs) constitute one of the most frequent sites where bilingual speakers code-switch. In this chapter we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of research into grammatical gender assignment in mixed NPs, namely NPs containing a noun from one language and a gender-agreeing element from another. We outline the three main gender assignment strategies observed in mixed NPs: (i) translation equivalent, (ii) shape-based, and (iii) default, and in which language pairs, using which tasks, they have been observed. We discuss how the order of acquisition of the gendered and non-gendered language, language dominance, task type, and community norms combine with linguistic properties to modulate gender assignment patterns. Findings suggest that bilinguals who learned a gendered language first seem to prefer the translation equivalent strategy. Since insufficient data from a wide variety of language dyads is currently available, we are cautious about offering further generalisations. Nonetheless, we highlight findings suggesting that more habitual code-switchers prefer the masculine default strategy. In order to progress beyond the current state of the art, we suggest that the field needs to expand into more language dyads, as well as extend existing research on individual language dyads, using multiple methodologies and in communities differing in their code-switching frequency.

Authors 2

1. Kate Bellamy

   Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique · Langues et Civilisations à Tradition Orale

   Affiliation as printed

   Langues et civilisations à tradition orale – Centre national de la recherche scientifique

   Langues et civilisations à tradition orale – Centre national de la recherche scientifique

2. M. Carmen Parafita Couto Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Centre for Linguistics