Asymmetric specification in the laryngeal contrast of Nivkh

In this talk I discuss the laryngeal contrast of Nivkh (isolated, Russia) and point to the asymmetry observed in its binary system of contrast. In word-initial position, Nivkh obstruents exhibit contrast between aspirated and non-aspirated plosives, and between voiced and voiceless fricatives. While most literature did not admit any asymmetry between the members of the contrasting pair (e.g. Kreinovich 1937, Hattori 1962), I will show evidence which points to the existence of asymmetry. In particular, I will argue that aspirated plosives and voiceless fricatives are the specified members of the contrast because they remain invariable across a great number of contexts. On the other hand, surface laryngeal realization of non-aspirated plosives and voiced fricatives varies depending on the context, indicating their unspecified nature.