Lao, Thai, and Their Next of Kin The Peninsular Branch of Southwestern Tai
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Abstract
This article reevaluates the subgrouping of Southwestern Tai languages using early phonological innovations reflected in Old Thai and Old Lao inscriptions. By analyzing four shared consonantal changes, simplification of *kʰr-, coalescence of *ɓl-, aspiration of *ʰr- and occlusivization of *x-, the research results propose a “Peninsular Southwestern Tai” subgroup encompassing Thai, Lao, Southern Thai, and most of the so-called “PH” varieties. This proposal offers a more empirical analysis of the genealogical relationships among these languages and suggests a southward spread of Peninsular Southwestern Tai from northern Laos to southern Thailand.
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WEBSITE
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