Linking – how semantic arguments map to the syntax – is one of the challenges for theories of the syntax-semantics interface. In this new approach, Janet Randall explores the hypothesis that the positions of syntactic arguments are strictly determined by lexical argument geometry. Yielding novel – if sometimes surprising – conclusions, her Isomorphic Linking Hypothesis establishes the linking patterns of a wide range of verbs and, with those results, shows how to reason ‘backwards’ from how a given verb’s arguments link to what its lexical representation must be. Along the way, the investigation takes on thorny lexical issues – reformulating the Theta Criterion, revisiting the multiple lexical-entry debate, eliminating ‘indirect’ arguments and redefining unaccusativity. It offers new insights into how arguments are represented, assembles a host of argument/adjunct diagnostics, and re-examines the relation between arguments and predicates. The result of this incisive study is a simple and consistent account of linking, integrated with a radical rethinking of the nature of arguments and argument structure.
Janet H. Randall
Linking
The Geometry of Argument Structure
Linking
The Geometry of Argument Structure
Language English ● Format PDF ● Pages 329 ● ISBN 9781402083082 ● File size 16.2 MB ● Publisher Springer Netherland ● City Dordrecht ● Country NL ● Published 2009 ● Downloadable 24 months ● Currency EUR ● ID 2148686 ● Copy protection without