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How does complex compounding work in Chukchi?
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Paleo-Siberian languages
Distribution of Paleo-Siberian languages.
In the context of Paleo-Siberian languages, Chukchi—a member of the Luorawetlan group—is characterized by a strong tendency toward complex compounding, also referred to as incorporation.1
This process allows multiple elements to be combined into a single, integrated unit. These units are often further modified through circumfixation, where a grammatical marker surrounds the entire compounded structure.1
For example, in the phrase ga + mor-ïk + tor + orw-ïma (meaning "in our new sleigh"), the entire compound is enclosed by the circumfix ga-…-ïma, which signifies "in." This demonstrates how the language builds complex meanings by layering modifiers and grammatical markers around a central core of incorporated words.1