An Optimality Theory Perspective on Mandarin Tone 3 Sandhi

This paper aims to provide an Optimality Theory (OT) account of Mandarin tone 3 sandhi. Some linguists have noticed that there are obvious phonetic differences between Mandarin sandhied tone 3 and tone 2 and that they are not neutralized. Traditional analyses viewing tone 3 sandhi as categorical change fail to account for differences between sandhied tone 3 and tone 2. In this paper a constraints-based analysis within the Optimality Theory (OT) framework is developed to look into Mandarin tone 3 sandhi and to explain differences between sandhied tone 3 and tone 2. A new analysis claiming that tone 3 sandhi is a tonal reduction is proposed and justified within the OT framework. The OT device of constraint conflicts permits the present analysis of tone 3 sandhi as a resolution of conflicts between a general principle of markedness and a general principle of tonal faithfulness. This approach provides straightforward descriptions and motivations for Mandarin tone 3 sandhi.

Keywords: tone, sandhi, Optimality Theory, constraint, Mandarin.