Abstract
This paper discusses the syntax of distributivity in Singapore English, a contact variety of English with extensive Chinese substrate influence. The analysis adapts the framework of Beghelli and Stowell (1997), focusing on the DistP projection in the functional spine. Novel data are presented and it is shown that also in Singapore English is polysemous, being realised as two homophonous but semantically distinct lexical items, which function as an additive adverb, as is the case in standard varieties of English, or as a distributivity operator. The environments in which also appears are similar, but not identical, to that of dou in Chinese: universal quantification, discontinuous even-focus constructions and free choice constructions. It is argued that also is an overt realisation of the Dist head, which bears an EPP feature that triggers movement of its various associates to its specifier, resulting in strict preverbal word order configurations.
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.
