Perfect-Perfective Variation across Spanish Dialects: A Parallel-Corpus Study

To analyze crossdialectal variation between the use of a Present Perfect form (Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto) and Perfective Past Indefinido) in Spanish, we make two converging methodologies: (i) parallel corpus research, where compare different translations same text (Harry Potter Philosopher’s Stone) into specific standardized written varieties Spanish (Peninsular, Mexican, Argentinian), (ii) an elicitation forced-choice task, native speakers each cities which these norms are produced (Madrid, Mexico City, Buenos Aires) have to choose Pretérito Compuesto Indefinido as most natural filler for blank contexts extracted from novel. Results tasks do not align completely. While data our work indicate wider distribution Mexican translation than Peninsular Argentinian ones, task shows that only choices Madrid (Castilian Spanish) Aires (Rioplatense converge with their respective patterns. Since observed goes against data, but also contradicts previous findings literature, abandon it further analyses. In second part paper, through detailed annotation corpora, show constraints allowing respond some features previously advanced literature. both dialects allow experiential resultative readings Compuesto, Castilian prefers this marker locate event hodiernal past. On other hand, Rioplatense systematically defaults cases, displaying more restricted form. Both seem exhibit preference continuative contexts. Our thus provides crucial take-home messages: understanding language is advancing crosslinguistic generalizations about tense-aspect phenomena; combining experimental methodologies can help us understand thorough way (Perfective) forms across dialects.