Abstract
Comparing translations of certain copular sentences with dummy subjects, the present paper demonstrates different preferences in English and German, interpreting them as yet another case of the alternative perspective of a more configurational language (English) versus a less configurational language (German). Like clefts, these sentences compensate for the tighter constraints of English on topicalization and adverbial modification by using referents as copular subjects. German does not favor the formally analogous structures because they are syntactically ambiguous and because there are more economical ways in German of achieving similar (albeit not identical) information structures. However, carrying the existential presupposition of all clefts, such cleft-like sentences, too, function as formal indicators of macrostructural relevance, while the corresponding declefted structures in German achieve macrostructural relevance only in a non-conventionalized way.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
