RECIPROCAL VERBS
Abstract
Proceedings of IATL 17
The paper argues that a derivational operation that reduces the internal
argument forms reciprocal verbs across languages. The operation applies
in certain languages (the Romance family) in syntax and in others (Hebrew,
Hungarian, or Russian) in the lexicon. A cluster of distinctions is shown
to fall from the parametric choice of lexical vs.syntactic application,
and triggers for parameter setting are discussed. The paper assumes the
grammar includes an operative lexicon, where derivational operations can
apply, and highlights the advantages of the lexicalist assumption for the
issue at hand. Finally, light is thrown on a particular set of unaccusative
verbs whose reciprocal meaning is inherent and does not follow from the
derivational operation.
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