ABSTRACT
This paper investigates the dynamic modal structures involving ɗit55 得 ‘get’ in Hainan Min, especially focusing on their negative counterparts. The negative modal forms in Hainan Min all have patterns which can be represented by the formula [Neg X] where ‘X’ is a variable referring to four types of ɗit-constructions: [V ɗit], [V ɗit O], [V ɗit C], and [V ɗit O C]. The present study accounts for this special negative pattern mainly through diachronic claims based on cross-dialectal data. Southern Min, Hakka, and Cantonese are compared with Hainan Min. The special negative form is assumed to be a historical remnant and reinforced by dialectal contact.
