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This paper presents a semantic analysis of the perfect aspect in Niuean (Polynesian). We argue based on novel data that the Niuean perfect shares many properties with the English perfect, but also several striking differences. The Niuean perfect disallows universal perfect readings, can induce inchoative readings, and with some event-types allows present in-progress readings. We analyze the Niuean perfect as introducing inchoative semantics: it adds an initial change-of-state to the predicate to which it attaches, and places that change-of-state inside the Perfect Time Span. Our findings cast doubt on a model of grammar whereby lexical aspectual operations such as inchoativization are strictly separated from viewpoint aspectual operations such as the perfect. We argue for a flexible approach whereby different components of meaning (inchoativity, a Perfect Time Span restriction, current relevance effects) can be introduced at different levels and combined in different ways by languages to produce surface cross-linguistic variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This paper examines existential pseudo noun incorporating (PNI) constructions in Niuean (Polynesian). There are two types of existential PNI constructions in Niuean, one in which the incorporated element is the pivot of the existential construction, and the other in which the incorporated element is a pronominal locative phrase, with the pivot serving as an argument in the sentence. These are first analyzed as PNI constructions, and then they are compared both with existing analyses of existential constructions in other languages, and with other PNI constructions in Niuean. The two Niuean constructions line up with two conflicting analyses of existential sentences in English (the DP analysis and the small clause analysis). In comparing the existential PNI constructions with regular PNI constructions, it is noted that existential incorporation stands apart from regular incorporation in that the incorporated NP may be associated with a relative clause, and it introduces an entity with existential and discourse referential properties. It is argued that the referentiality of the incorporated NP is provided by the verb of existence, which thus functions both as a verb and a determiner, rather than by any DP-internal functional projection. In addition it is noted that phrases larger than noun phrases are subject to PNI in locative and existential constructions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier] more...

This paper describes the Niuean community and the evolving roles of Niuean language and identity in New Zealand, where the majority of Niueans now reside. As part of the Pasifika Languages of Manukau Project (PLMP), 30 New Zealand Niueans participated in detailed interviews on issues relating to language maintenance. This paper considers their responses both quantitatively and qualitatively. The quantitative data provide a basis for discussions on identity; considering age-graded changes in the areas of first language, reported language proficiency and language use. The qualitative data, which draw on personal narratives from the interviews, focuses on why these changes are taking place. The narratives provide vivid illustrations of the importance of both English and Niuean, the different roles that the two languages serve, and the conflict that many Niueans experience when attempting language maintenance initiatives in an English-dominant context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Pacific Island nations have recently been involved in selling their country domain names, notably, “.nu” (for Niue) and “.tv” (for Tuvalu). In Niue's case this has given free access to the Internet to those living in Niue, resulting in a subsequent rise in their participation in Web-based forums that deal exclusively with Niuean issues. One site, OKA-KOA, based in Australia and modeled on the KAVABOWL Web site catering generally to Pacific Islanders, has a number of forums in which Niueans discuss everything from politics to family weddings. Included is a forum dedicated to Niuean language issues. This paper analyzes the Niuean language use in the OKA-KOA site, looking at the potential for a Niuean language renaissance. On the positive side, Web-based discourse allows the Niuean diaspora to communicate with each other and with native-speaking Niueans who still reside in Niue, boosting exposure to native language use. However, as examples indicate, the fast-changing technology driving the Web attracts users of English and fosters a code-mixed English and Niuean insider language. In conclusion, speculations on the benefits offered online for the Niuean language are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...