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BestATN@hidden.email wrote:
>
> Some of the examples with "batsa" combine an indefinite/definite (i.e.
> specific) patient with a generic (non-specific) focus. Can something
> specific "be the same as" something non-specific? I don't think so, and this
> is why I think the generic form should be replaced by the indefinite form
> using "va" in the sentences below ...
>
I disagree.
It really depends on how you perceive the generic/indefinite phrase and
whether you should be able to refer to it later with an anaphor. For
example:
Batsa Kajobyo getubyo. Bube lisi johi mi ne bube lisi mi tuhi.
= John is an actor. He doesn't like me and I don't like them.
We can also use the following:
Tubyonta Kajobyo = John is an actor.
where "tubyo" in "tubyonta" is inherently generic (even though it's
being used in a verb).
Regards,
Rick Morneau
http://www.srv.net/~ram
http://www.eskimo.com/~ram