Flexible Syntax: A Theory of Case and Arguments (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780792360582)

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.

Author: A. Neeleman,F. Weerman
ISBN-10: 0792360583
ISBN-13: 9780792360582
Publisher: Springer
Language: English
Published: 11/30/1999
Pages: 253
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.23lbs
Size: 9.77h x 6.48w x 0.83d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 11/01/2000 pg. 154