Quote:
Originally Posted by Casiopea  In English, Ergative: This vase broke.
Who or what broke the vase isn't important. What's important is the vase didn't break by itself. It required something or someone to break it. Middle: This vase breaks easily. < actually, not 'Middle' (although that term is used), but mediopassive> 
Who or what broke the vase isn't important. What's important is the vase is easily breakable.
That's the short answer. For a longer answer click here.
All the best.  |
Oh, thank you for the explanation, indeed! I am just wndering... what is the difference between a middle verb and a mediopassive? I thought it was the same.
One might say I am going into too much detail about this (and it is probably the truth) but I am simply interested in it
.