1.2.1. Manual marking

Definiteness can be indicated by pointing signs. In LIS, pointing signs with the function of articles or demonstratives generally occur in post nominal position, giving the definite reference to the nouns (SYNTAX 4.1). An example of pointing sign with the function of a definite article is displayed below.

 

 

 

         dog ix play continue_va_va

         â€˜The dog kept on playing.’

 

An example of pointing sign with the function of a demonstrative is shown in the discourse stretch below.

 

 

 

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         card ix(dem) ix1 need ix1  

         â€˜This card, I need it.’