Most linguistic theories assume that each grammatical relation is established in a unique structural configuration. Neeleman and Weerman take issue with this view, arguing for a more flexible approach on the basis of conceptual considerations and data taken mostly, but not exclusively, from the Germanic languages. In-depth analyses of word order phenomena as well as diachronic and typological generalizations motivate a re-evaluation of the role of case in the projection of arguments. Case is shown to provide a syntactic foothold for thematic interpretation, something which is necessary in a grammar that does not allow fixed theta-positions. Thus, this study does not only offer a genuine alternative to many standard assumptions, it also explains why there should be such a thing as case in natural language.
| ISBN: | 9780792360582 |
| Publication date: | 30th November 1999 |
| Author: | Ad Neeleman, Fred Weerman |
| Publisher: | Springer an imprint of Springer Netherlands |
| Format: | Hardback |
| Pagination: | 253 pages |
| Series: | Studies in Natural Language and Linguistic Theory |
| Genres: |
Linguistics Historical and comparative linguistics Grammar, syntax and morphology Language: reference and general |
Most linguistic theories assume that each grammatical relation is established in a unique structural configuration. Neeleman and Weerman take issue with this view, arguing for a more flexible approach on the basis of conceptual considerations and data taken mostly, but not exclusively, from the Germanic languages. In-depth analyses of word order phenomena as well as diachronic and typological generalizations motivate a re-evaluation of the role of case in the projection of arguments. Case is shown to provide a syntactic foothold for thematic interpretation, something which is necessary in a grammar that does not allow fixed theta-positions. Thus, this study does not only offer a genuine alternative to many standard assumptions, it also explains why there should be such a thing as case in natural language.
Flexible Syntax features in the following genres: Linguistics, Historical and comparative linguistics, Grammar, syntax and morphology, Language: reference and general
Flexible Syntax is available in Hardback
Flexible Syntax was written by Ad Neeleman, Fred Weerman and published by Springer an imprint of Springer Netherlands
Flexible Syntax has 253 pages
Yes it is part of Studies in Natural Language and Linguistic Theory series