Pronouns

AbstractPronouns sit at the heart of grammar, comprising a tightly structured, (mostly) closed class of (typically) high frequency lexemes. This chapter surveys both the typologically typical and atypical features of Aboriginal pronouns alike. We begin by sketching the basic architecture of these pronominal paradigms (person, number, and gender/class), along with coexpressed categories such as case, tense, mood, and aspect, and the systematic encoding of kin/generational relationships between referents. Following this, we consider the respective morphosyntax of bound and free pronouns, which co-exist within many Australian languages, as well as the relationships between pronouns and the noun/determiner phrase. Next, we survey the various pronominal (sub)classes, including: possessive pronouns; intensifier pronouns; reflexive/reciprocal pronouns; demonstrative pronouns; and interrogative/indefinite pronouns. We conclude with a consideration of the historical dynamics of pronouns, tracing both their etymological sources and destinations, as well as their important role in establishing genetic relationships between languages.