Alternation ‘Detransitive / slot filler (wa-)’ (Coded)

The 3PL.U prefix wa- is used as an argument slot filler (detransitivizer) and thus the valency of the verb is decreased. In Hoocąk it is used regularly with the verb ruuc 'eat' only (though it is a common operation in many of the other Sioaun languages). The undergoer can no longer be expressed via an overt NP, but a general meaning like "something" is assumed (e.g. wa-ruuc 'A ate (something)).

Verb Meaning Verb form Basic coding frame Derived coding frame Occurs Comment # Ex.