Spatial prefixes as applicatives in Harakmbut

This paper focuses on valence-increasing morphology that introduces a non-Actor argument into the clause in Harakmbut (isolate, Peru). It first discusses two dedicated applicative markers which are in complementary distribution, and then homes in on a set of spatial prefixes which can also serve an applicative function. These prefixes are positionally flexible, and may simultaneously occur in distinct slots on a single verb form. Three types of uses can be distinguished for the spatial prefixes: non-syntactic, valence-neutral spatial uses, valence-increasing spatial uses and valence-increasing non-spatial uses. It is argued that these three uses can be interpreted as distinct stages on a grammaticalization pathway from spatial, lexical element to abstract, non-spatial grammatical element. The prefixes investigated turn out to occupy different places on this applicativization pathway. These spatial prefixes are a previously unreported source for applicative markers.