Phonological split is a sound change that leads to additions or alterations in the system of distinctions. In this process, one phoneme divides into two phonemes, which is precisely the opposite of phonological merger. Strictly speaking, splits are the result of the phonemicization of preexisting allophonic variations in the system. It is this type of split which is usually referred to in the study of sound change.

The term ‘split’ is sometimes also used in cases where no clear phonemic distinction occurs, i.e. where the phonological structure of the language is …