Local Instability - Split Topicalization and Quantifier Float in German (Hardcover)

This monograph argues for a novel approach to split topicalization and quantifier float in German, based on the premise that syntactic structure-building proceeds solely via free application of Merge. Following recent developments in the pursuit of a more principled theory of syntax, it is argued that the stipulative notion of 'projection' ought to be dispensed with: syntactic objects created by Merge are not headed, and endocentricity arises due to a simple search algorithm. When this algorithm fails, specifically in symmetric {XP,YP} structures, an unlabeled constituent results; where a label is required, such structures are locally unstable. It is argued that both split topics and floated quantifiers are the result of this kind of local instability: when an exocentric predication structure is merged in argument or adjunct position, XP must be displaced at the phase level to allow for determination of a label. It is this symmetry-breaking movement that yields the 'split constituent' in surface form. Based on careful empirical scrutiny of two recalcitrant problems for syntactic theory, the present work adduces substantial support for a 'minimalist' grammatical architecture devoid of phrase-structural residue.

General

Imprint:	De Gruyter
Country of origin:	Germany
Series:	Linguistische Arbeiten
Release date:	August 2012
First published:	2012
Authors:	Dennis Ott
Dimensions:	230 x 155mm (L x W)
Format:	Hardcover
Pages:	182
ISBN-13:	978-3-11-029037-0
Categories:	Books > Language & Literature > Language & linguistics > General Books > Language & Literature > Language teaching & learning (other than ELT) > Language teaching & learning material & coursework > General
LSN:	3-11-029037-5
Barcode:	9783110290370

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