Subject autonomy marking in Macro-Tani and the typology of middle voice

Abstract Middle voice constructions are generally understood as syntactically detransitivizing and semantically characterized by a “low degree of event elaboration” (in Kemmer’s terms) involving relatively affected subject. thus have been identified in several Trans-Himalayan (Sino-Tibetan) languages, particular LaPolla. In Macro-Tani we find seemingly cognate construction with similar distribution; however, middle-like not detransitivizing, do mark subject affectedness. Instead, their primary meaning appears to be one highlighting autonomy : heightened autonomy, volition and/or responsibility over an action on the part clause this article, following analysis marking, will argue that its similarities differences from middle marking other languages is consistent Zúñiga Kittilä’s view “network meanings,” whose properties derive reflection unified underlying cognitive category, but rather heterogeneous set developments diachronic source forms.