Minimalist syntax
T’ theory:
Problems with X’:
Dividing S into 3
What to do with “to”?
Affix hopping : -ed, -s lands in the place of T
When sentence form = dictionary form we write person, number and tense of the verb, but there is no actual constituent written under T
Complementizers
That, if, whether, for (in for…to construction) etc
CPà C+TP
Every TP is preceded by CP (in single clause affirmative sentences it is empty)
It is overt in questions and some subordinate clauses
Null constituents
- Subjects: in imperatives, colloquial speech, coordinating sentences of the same subject
Proof of reflective pronouns
- Complementizers
Overt nullification: I know you love syntax vs I know that you love syntax
Hidden nullification: She wanted him to apologize vs. She wanted more than anything FOR him to apologize
- T (see above)
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