Erundatiiv

Erundatiiv is a term used in linguistics to describe a non-finite verbal form that marks the action of the verb as ongoing or in progress relative to another event, functioning similarly to how a gerund or adverbial participle can operate in some languages. In discussions, erundatiiv is proposed as a distinct category from gerunds and participles, with a specific focus on aspectual and adverbial meanings associated with simultaneous or background actions.

Typology and usage

The erundatiiv is typically described as non-finite and often lacking its own tense; its temporal interpretation is anchored to the main clause. It commonly encodes backgrounding, contemporaneity, or circumstantial information surrounding the primary event. In some analyses, it can convey a durative or imperfective shade of meaning and may carry optional evidential or modal nuances depending on the language.

Morphology and syntax

Morphologically, erundatiiv forms may be realized through a dedicated suffix or a periphrastic construction that combines the verb stem with an auxiliary or marker. There is variation in whether the erundiiv form takes its own subject or shares the main clause subject. Syntactically, it behaves like an adverbial constituent attached to the main clause, sometimes presenting as a non-finite clause with limited independence.

Distribution and status

The erundatiiv is reported in a limited set of languages and in several constructed-language grammars. It has not achieved widespread acceptance as a universal or cross-linguistically standard category. Debates continue about its precise definition, cross-linguistic realization, and how it relates to established non-finite forms such as gerunds, participles, and adverbial clauses.

See also

Gerund, Gerundive, Adverbial participle, Non-finite clause, Ergative.