From consonant to tone: Laryngealized and pharyngealized vowels in Udihe

This article gives a comprehensive analysis of laryngealized and pharyngealized
vowels in the Udihe language. Their realization in different Udihe varieties is
considered, and their etymology is traced. The classification of Udihe dialects is also
discussed. The presence of pharyngalized vowels is one of the most important
features that distinguishes the northern dialect cluster from the southern one. The
loss of pharyngealized vowels has led to changes in the morphology and syntax of
the dialects of the southern cluster. The analysis provides a basis for a complete
picture of a dialectal continuum, which includes dialects of Udihe and the closely
related Oroch language. The internal mechanisms of the dialectal continuum are
presented, taking into account types of pronunciation in neighbouring varieties.