Abstract
This article is concerned with the possibility that syntactic structure may feature “small stuff” not just at the very top of the clause, but also lower down, in the domain that would usually be regarded as the lexical domain. The analysis is based on a range of (dialectal) Dutch and Frisian data, suggesting an initial analysis for the relevant morphosyntactic facts in terms of which a “smaller” higher category -what superficially looks like the definite and indefinite article in the relevant systems - seems to be located at the bottom of a nominal structure.
Highlights
“Don’t sweat the small stuff!” People sometimes hear this idiomatic expression when they worry too much about small things in life that cause concern
The above proverbial wisdom carries a lot of truth as regards normal daily life, many a scientist will adhere to the reverse proverbial wisdom when it concerns his/her life as a scientist: “Do sweat the small stuff!”
Evidence has been provided in support of the idea that the syntactic projection of a lexical category - the so-called lexical projection - is structurally contained within the projection of a functional category; the so-called Functional Head Hypothesis, which is represented by (1a); cf
Summary
“Don’t sweat the small stuff!” People sometimes hear this idiomatic expression when they worry too much about small things in life that cause concern. Functional categories, just like lexical ones, fully participate in syntax and are subject to organizational principles that contribute a certain beauty to the inner structure of an extended projection.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
