Flexible Syntax : A Theory of Case and Arguments

F. Weerman

ISBN 10: 0792371992 / ISBN 13: 9780792371991

Published by Springer Netherlands, Springer Netherlands, 2001

About this Item

Druck auf Anfrage Neuware - Printed after ordering - 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.

Seller Inventory # 9780792371991

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Flexible Syntax : A Theory of Case and Arguments
• Publisher: Springer Netherlands, Springer Netherlands
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0792371992
• ISBN 13: 9780792371991
• Binding: Taschenbuch
• Condition: Neu
• Dimensions: 234W x 156H x 15D millimeters 234 millimeters width by 156 millimeters height by 15 millimeters depth
• Weight: 418 grams

About this title

Synopsis

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.

Review

`This book presents very innovative and original ideas, and an impressive variety of data and problems to be accounted for.'
Alex Alsina
`I enjoyed the book a lot and found it very stimulating. In my opinion, it is a very good piece of work.'
Denis Bouchard