[tied] Re: ka and k^a

--- In cybalist@yahoogroups.com, "Patrick Ryan" <proto-language@...>
wrote:

> > Well, I understand what you're saying. Can you point to any
> > studies which show conclusively that "there is no vowel system
> > that lacks height"?
> >
> > - Rob
>
> ***
> Patrick:
>
> The simplest vowel system known, Abkhaz, has a central vowel in two
> heights: open and close.
>
> ***

In that case, it seems best to make the deduction that, based on what
we know (the simplest vowel inventory distinguishing height but not
frontness/backness), height is a more fundamental distinction.

- Rob