A characteristic feature of this language is described in explaining syllabic reduplication, which performs iterative and distributive functions. Reduplication for various purposes is found in most of the languages of North America. In the Nahuatl, Sahaptin, and Selish families it is most prominent. Mr. Gatschet’s researches will add materially to the knowledge of the functions of reduplication in tribal languages.
The verbal inflection is comparatively simple, for in it the subject and object pronouns are not incorporated. In the verb Mr. Gatschet recognizes ten general forms, a part of which he designates as verbals, as follows:
1. Infinitive in -a.
2. Durative in -ota.
3. Causative in -oga.
4. Indefinite in -ash.
5. Indefinite in -uĭsh.
6. Conditional in -asht.
7. Desiderative in -ashtka.
8. Intentional in -tki.