The expression of information structure in Tunen

This chapter provides a descriptive overview of the expression of information structure in Tunen (A44, Cameroon), based primarily on original field data. The overall conclusion is that, in contrast to other Bantu languages, grammatical roles have a greater influence on syntax in Tunen than discourse roles do. A key finding is that the canonical word order S-Aux-O-V-X is compatible with a variety of information-structural contexts, rather than being an information structure-conditioned variant of an unmarked VO pattern. Non-subject information focus may be left unmarked via the canonical word order, while subject focus must be expressed via a basic cleft, showing a subject/non-subject asymmetry. The marker á, considered in previouswork to be a monoclausal contrast marker, is argued on the basis of new data tobe the specificational/identificational copula found within biclausal cleft constructions,with a subject/non-subject distinction visible between the use of a basic cleftand a reverse pseudocleft structure. In terms of topic expression, it is shown thatboth topical and non-topical material may occupy the subject position within thecanonical word order, with no obligatory marking of topicality and no requirementto mark contrastive topics. The chapter ends with discussion of functional equivalents of passive constructions and consideration of how referent expression variesover discourse.