The Origins of Complexity: A First Approach to the Reconstruction of Nasa Yuwe Phonology

Abstract

Nasa Yuwe (ISO 639-3 pbb, formerly Páez) has been characterized as a language featuring a substantial inventory of both consonants and vowels, displaying intricate phonological categories. Moreover, various forms of complex syllable onsets have been observed in modern variations of this language. Given the absence of any documented languages closely related to Nasa Yuwe, a comprehensive understanding of the variation and evolution of its intricate phonological system necessitates a process of internal reconstruction. This paper outlines recent advancements in this area, resulting from a comparison between the only known written source of Páez from the Colonial period and data from contemporary Nasa Yuwe varieties. This initial study primarily focuses on the diachronic process of vowel deletion and its correlation with the emergence of double onsets and palatalization in contemporary Nasa Yuwe.