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Description:
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Mualang is a Malayic(-Dayak) language spoken in the interior of western
Kalimantan (Borneo), Indonesia. Given the relatively large number of
speakers (approximately 40,000 people), and due to its fairly isolated
geography and some well-maintained socio-cultural traditions, the study of
the language considerably broadens our knowledge of the Ibanic language
family and the Malayic language group in general. Western Borneo has been
posited as a possible homeland-candidate of Proto Malayic speakers.
Therefore, linguistic contributions about inland languages in areas such as
that of the Mualang language and people will provide Austronesian linguists
with more information regarding this issue.
This study presents a full descriptive account of the grammar of Mualang,
covering the major features of phonology and morphosyntax as well as issues
related to pragmatics. This grammar is the result of a combination of
textual analysis, elicitation and participant observation. The grammar is
supplemented by word lists and an extensive collection of glossed and
translated texts.
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