inddeles

Inddeles is a term used in linguistic typology to describe a proposed class of determiner-like markers that fuse demonstrative and definite functions. In languages described as having an inddeles system, a single element may encode proximity (near, far, or proximal) and definiteness, and often number. This supports a compact strategy for referent encoding, differing from systems that separate demonstratives from articles.

The term inddeles is a neologism coined in modern typological discussions. It is not established in standard reference grammars, and its attestation remains limited to descriptive accounts in certain constructed-language grammars or theoretical surveys. As such, it serves as a heuristic category rather than a widely attested natural-language feature.

Morphology and syntax: Inddeles can appear as clitics, post-nominal suffixes, or independent words, with the exact realization varying by language. The same morpheme may mark both proximity and definiteness, and may participate in number marking through allomorphy or separate affixes. Many proposed inddeles systems allow for multiple grades of definiteness (definite near, definite distant, definite generic) and for singular/plural distinctions.

Examples: In a hypothetical language, a form like kal inddeles might be used to express “the near house” as a single unit, while kal-inddeles or kal inddeles plural could express “the near houses.” These examples illustrate the classificatory idea rather than a documented language.

See also: Demonstratives, articles, definiteness, nominal morphology, constructed languages.