Abstract
This paper concerns two questions regarding the loss of -k in checked syllables in Zhao’an Hakka: (1) What kinds of phonological changes will be induced by such a loss? And (2) what are the possible causes? To answer the first question, we propose that three major, distinct tonal features—tonal value, tonal pattern, and tonal length—play crucial roles in determining tonal change in Chinese dialects. And it is through the interaction of these three features in the system that we are able to give a satisfactory explanation of the tonal developments that have occurred after the loss of the final -k in the dialect under consideration. To answer the second question, we suggest that the loss of -k, in fact, reflects the influence of a Hmongic substratum. This is a clear case of language contact constituting a very important factor in phonological change.