Abstract
The present paper examines the variation between finite and infinitive complements of the Portuguese perception/causation verbs ver (‘see’), ouvir (‘hear’), sentir (‘feel’), deixar (‘let’) and fazer (‘make’) from a cognitive grammar perspective. It is argued that the distribution of the structures main verb + finite/infinitive complement can be explained by iconicity and subjectification. The hypothesis is put forward that the structure perception verb + infinitive complement designates direct physical perception, while the structure perception verb + finite complement designates an inferential relation between the main verb and the complement event. In addition, the structure causation verb + infinitive complement designates direct causation, whereas causation verb + finite complement designates an indirect causation with inferential features. Further, it is claimed that the inferential and conceptually more complex character found in the structure main verb + finite complement represents a prime example of subjectification. Being so, it is argued that Portuguese complementation provides a remarkable connection between iconicity and subjectification.
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.
