Flexible Syntax : a Theory of Case and Arguments /
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 Germ...
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| Format: | eBook |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Dordrecht :
Springer Netherlands,
1999.
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| Series: | Studies in natural language and linguistic theory ;
47. |
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| Online Access: | Connect to the full text of this electronic book |
| Summary: | 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. |
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| Item Description: | Electronic resource. |
| Physical Description: | 1 online resource (276 pages) |
| ISBN: | 9789401142892 (electronic bk.) 9401142890 (electronic bk.) |
| ISSN: | 0924-4670 ; |