Phonological changes during the transition from one-word to productive word combination*

A B S T R A C T We investigated developmental changes during the transition from one-word to two-word production, focusing on strategies to lengthen utterances phonologically and to control utterances suprasegmentally. We hypothesized that there is a period of reorganization at the onset of word combinations indicated by decreases in both filler syllables (Fillers) and final syllable lengthening (FSL). The data are from a visually impaired child (Seth) between 1; 6.21 and 1 ; 10.26. Seth produced many Fillers until 1 ; 9 when their number decreased for about two weeks after which they changed in nature. FSL was observed until 1; 8, but diminished at 1; 9. These two regressions coincide with the onset of word combination. [*] We thank Bob and Seth Wilson for their many kinds of participation and their willingness to make these data public; the editors, anonymous reviewers and Lise Menn for comments on an earlier draft