ítverbs

Ítverbs are a proposed class of verb forms used in linguistic typology and in some constructed languages to denote punctual, momentary events. The term centers on a hypothetical suffix -ít, which in these analyses marks an instantaneous, one-shot reading of an action. The category is not widely attested in natural languages; it is mainly used in theoretical discussions and conlangs to illustrate how aspect interacts with event duration.

Morphology and syntax: An ítverb consists of a verb stem plus the -ít suffix. It behaves like a finite verb and can take standard tense, mood, and subject agreement markers in languages that have such systems. The defining feature is aspect: -ít encodes punctuality, signaling that the event occurs at a single point in time. In some frameworks, -ít can co-occur with other markers to yield past punctual, future punctual, or fading into other readings, though habitual readings are typically handled by separate aspect marks.

Semantics and usage: Ítverbs foreground quick, completed events or are used to contrast with durative or iterative forms. They are a useful theoretical device for examining how languages mark event duration, temporal granularity, and focus. In constructed languages, ítverbs can be used to craft concise narratives where many events are treated as instantaneous.

Examples:

gabít — blink in an instant

tirít — sigh briefly

gérít — step into position momentarily

Usage notes: Because -ít marks a specific temporal granularity, its use can influence information structure and discourse timing. It is generally analyzed as an aspect marker rather than a lexical property of individual roots.

See also: Aspect, Verbal morphology, Constructed languages