Licensing of matrix questions in Japanese and its implications

Abstract

Japanese allows matrix questions either with or without a Q-particle. It is therefore often assumed that a Q-particle is optional in matrix questions and questions can be licensed by a null Q-particle or rising-intonation. This paper, however, shows that some matrix questions require an overt Q-particle, which undermines the assumption that a null Q-particle or rising intonation can license sentences as interrogative. This study thus pursues the mechanism of licensing matrix questions without this assumption. In particular, I propose that yes/no- and wh-questions without an overt Q-particle are licensed via Agree with their relevant items (i.e. a polarity head and wh-phrase). I further argue that there are two positions where matrix yes/no-questions are licensed in Japanese. This two-layered approach can capture the typological distribution of Q-particles and universal properties of matrix yes/no-questions.