(IN)DEFINITE MARKING IN BURMESE

Abstract

Given the lack of definite articles, this thesis investigates and describes how (in)definiteness is marked in Burmese noun phrases in the object position. Definiteness is reflected through the use of demonstratives, numerals and the bare noun. Indefinite noun phrases are marked with the numeral ‘one’ while definite noun phrases are expressed with the bare noun. Burmese also systematically distinguishes anaphoric definites through an optional demonstrative that can attach to the noun phrase. This distinction of anaphoric definites is seen cross-linguistically. However, Burmese stands apart in its ability to mark both anaphoric definites and other definites with the bare noun. I propose that this is due to Burmese being in the early stages of grammaticalising the demonstrative into a definite article.