Negation in Cuwabo

International audience This chapter provides a descriptive analysis of the negative constructions in Cuwa\-bo (Bantu P34) on both clausal and non-clausal levels. Formal properties such as type, position and number of negative markers are dealt with, as well as the structural differences between affirmatives versus negatives. On the clausal level, distinction is made between declaratives, non-declaratives, verbless predication and non-main clauses. Non-clausal negation, usually poorly described in Bantu grammars, involves negative replies, negative indefinites, and negative derivation. This paper finally addresses several semantic-pragmatic aspects linked with negation. Of particular interest is the recurrent use of ironic negative constructions in order to convey emphatic affirmative statements.