Abstract This article analyzes verb stem alternations in Gzitsha, a Tibetic language, based on first‐hand data. We first outline the synchronic predicate structure in which stem alternation operates alongside auxiliaries to express TAM categories. Gzitsha verbs may exhibit up to three stems, though most display a two‐stem system; only four verbs retain a full three‐stem paradigm. Primary alternation strategies include vowel alternation, onset alternation, and suppletion. Diachronic analysis shows that although many alternations regularly reflect Written Tibetan paradigms, extensive analogical levelling has occurred. The most significant change is the systematic loss of the distinct imperative stem, as Stem II has been generalised for this function. The study also identifies irregular patterns shared with the closely related Baima language, indicating common historical innovations. Intriguingly, some of these irregularities are also attested in Amdo varieties, revealing a phenomenon that merits further investigation.
Tshering et al. (Mon,) studied this question.