Syntactic Relations: A Critical Survey (Cambridge Studies in Linguistics, Series Number 114) - Softcover

Matthews, P. H.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521608295 ISBN 13: 9780521608299

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2007

Synopsis

Accounts of syntax are usually based on two assumptions: firstly, that a sentence comprises a hierarchy of phrases, forming a 'tree' structure; and secondly, that phrases have 'heads', on which subordinate units depend. These fundamental assumptions are questioned in this critical survey, which argues that neither concept is important as is claimed, and that syntactic relations are in fact far more varied. Drawing on data from English as well as other major European languages, it summarizes earlier accounts of syntactic structure and looks at the different ways in which specific constructions have been described - the subject of much disagreement between linguists. It explores the problems faced by particular analyses, and raises the question of whether syntax should be made simpler than it is. Suitable for non-specialists and complete with a clear and useful glossary, Syntactic Relations will become an essential and thought-provoking read for students and researchers in linguistic theory.

About this title

About the Author

Peter Matthews is Emeritus Professor of Linguistics and Fellow of St John's College, University of Cambridge.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2007
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521608295
• ISBN 13: 9780521608299
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 222