verborelike

Verborelike is a term used in linguistics to describe a class of word forms that resemble verbs morphologically but function syntactically as non-verb categories, such as nouns or adjectives. The concept is used to discuss cross-linguistic data where a form carries verb-like inflection yet does not occupy a traditional verbal slot in syntax.

Most commonly, a verborelike form may bear tense, aspect, or mood markings on a stem that does not act as a predicative verb; instead, it may head a noun phrase, modify a noun, or appear in non-predicative positions. This resists straightforward labeling as a deverbal noun or a bare verb, highlighting gaps between morphology and category in some languages. Such forms can complicate typological classifications of word classes and challenge assumptions about strict boundaries between verbs and other parts of speech.

Distribution and interpretation of verborelike forms are debated. Some analysts treat them as remnants of grammaticalization chains where verbal morphology shifts into nominal or adjectival use. Others see them as distinct lexical classes with mixed properties, requiring revised typologies of word classes.

Origin and usage: The term verborelike is a neologism in linguistic literature, formed from the root verb and the English suffix -like to denote similarity to verbs. It is not universally standardized and is primarily used in theoretical discussions and cross-linguistic typology to describe unusual morphosyntactic patterns.

See also: Deverbal noun, Verbal morphology, Part of speech, Grammaticalization.