Abstract
This paper explores the formal and functional aspects of the existential there-construction (ETC) in L2 argumentative writings, focusing on the interaction with L2 proficiency. An analysis of NS and NNS written texts has revealed that the NNS produced the ETC much more frequently than the NS, possibly utilizing it as a hedge marker to render their statements less direct and more tentative. The post-modifiers of the notional subject progressed from clausal to phrasal structures, conforming to the prediction of developmental trajectory of L2 written grammar. The patterns of definiteness and animacy of the notional subject in L2 as compared to L1 texts indicate that the acquisition of subtle semantic and pragmatic features interacting with the ETC is not an easy task and requires a sufficient level of L2 proficiency. Future research with a larger corpus should complement the findings of the current study.
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