description Jonathan Bobaljik Overview
Jonathan Bobaljik is a linguist whose research focuses on morphology, syntax, linguistic typology, and the relationships between grammatical structure and word formation. He is particularly known for comparative research and for the 2012 book Universals in Comparative Morphology, which examines recurring patterns in comparative and superlative forms across languages. His work is intended primarily for scholars and students of theoretical and cross-linguistic grammar.
help Jonathan Bobaljik FAQ
What is Jonathan Bobaljik's main contribution to linguistics?
Bobaljik is best known for his work in comparative morphology, particularly his 2012 book "Universals in Comparative Morphology" published by MIT Press. The book presents a cross-linguistic study of suppletion in comparatives and superlatives, arguing for universal constraints on morphological expression.
Where does Jonathan Bobaljik work?
Bobaljik is a professor in the Department of Linguistics at Harvard University. He previously held a position at the University of Connecticut before joining Harvard.
What is the key finding of Bobaljik's work on superlatives?
His research demonstrates a universal hierarchy in how languages form comparatives and superlatives, showing that suppletion (irregular forms like "good/better/best") follows predictable patterns across unrelated languages. This finding has been influential in morphological theory and the study of linguistic universals.
What languages has Bobaljik worked on in his research?
In addition to his theoretical work, Bobaljik has conducted fieldwork on Itelmen, a highly endangered Chukotko-Kamchatkan language of the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. His comparative morphological research draws on data from hundreds of languages worldwide to test universals.
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