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Local Instability: Split Topicalization and Quantifier Float in German - Dennis Ott

English
2012-08-17
€210.48 €263.10

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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 n ... Full description

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Description

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.

More Information

Author Dennis Ott
Publisher De Gruyter
Series ISSN
Release year 2012
Cover type Hardcover
EAN 9783110290370
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€210.48 €263.10