Abstract
Serbo-Croat has a complex system of clitics which raise interesting problems for any theory of the interface between syntax and morphology. After summarising the data we review previous analyses (mostly within the generative tradition), all of which are unsatisfactory in various ways. We then explain how Word Grammar handles clitics: as words whose form is an affix rather than the usual ‘word-form’. Like other affixes, clitics need a word to accommodate them, but in the case of clitics this is a special kind of word called a ‘hostword’. We present a detailed analysis of Serbo-Croat clitics within this theory, introducing a new distinction between two cases: where the clitics are attached to the verb or auxiliary, and where they are attached to some dependent of the verb.
Highlights
Serbo-Croat has a complex system of clitics which raise interesting problems for any theory of the interface between syntax and morphology
The set of syntactic clitics comprises pronominal and auxiliary elements, as well as the reflexive clitic se together with the question particle li. They are stress-less and require prosodically strong material for support. They do not cluster in the second position and do not belong to the set of syntactic clitics with which we are concerned.)
‘Maria has picked up a flower and Ivana has put it in the vase.’
Summary
B. Prije dva dana sam joj ih dao. The set of syntactic clitics comprises pronominal and auxiliary elements, as well as the reflexive clitic se together with the question particle li. (SC has clitic prepositions which are clitics in the phonological sense They are stress-less and require prosodically strong material for support. They do not cluster in the second position and do not belong to the set of syntactic clitics with which we are concerned.). While je is found at the end of the cluster, other auxiliary forms are placed immediately after the question particle li
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
