Zur semantischen Basis der Numerusdistinktion im gesprochenen Portugiesisch Brasiliens

Abstract

This paper examines the semantics of the singular/plural distinction in spoken Brazilian Portuguese. Analysis of real data from this variety of Portuguese shows that: 1) both plural marked NPs and plural unmarked NPs may have a plural reference; 2) the difference in plural marking is determined by semantic differences pertaining to the properties of (types of) plural objects denoted, respectively, by one or other construction. KEYWORDS: Semantics; Number; Brazilian Portuguese.