Abstract
Complex predicates formed of a semantically ‘light’ verbal head and a noun or verb which contributes the major part of the meaning are frequently referred to as ‘light verb constructions’ (LVCs). In the paper, we present a case study of LVCs with the German posture verb stehen ‘stand’. In our account, we model the syntactic as well as semantic composition of such LVCs by combining Lexicalized Tree Adjoining Grammar (LTAG) with frames. Starting from the analysis of the literal uses of posture verbs, we show how the meaning components of the literal uses are systematically exploited in the interpretation of stehen-LVCs. The paper constitutes an important step towards a compositional and computational analysis of LVCs. We show that LTAG allows us to separate constructional from lexical meaning components and that frames enable elegant generalizations over event types and related constraints.
Highlights
Light verb constructions (LVCs) are complex predicates consisting of – at least – two lexical elements forming a joint predication
As illustrated by the examples, the nominal element used in an LVC is characteristically an eventive noun which determines the event denoted by the LVC as a whole
The current paper aims at filling this gap by presenting a case study on the semantic composition of German LVCs of the ‘prospective family’ presented in (2)
Summary
Light verb constructions (LVCs) are complex predicates consisting of – at least – two lexical elements forming a joint predication. As illustrated by the examples, the nominal element used in an LVC is characteristically an eventive noun which determines the event denoted by the LVC as a whole In this regard, Butt and Geuder (2001) state that light verbs make a (often just subtle) semantic contribution to the predication and are not able to denote full-fledged events of their own (in contrast to their heavy pendants). Fleischer 1997; Fellbaum et al 2006) consider LVCs as idioms since constructions of this type often have a conventionalized interpretation and especially the light verb cannot be interpreted literally In their discussion of idioms, Nunberg et al (1994) argue that idiomaticity does not contradict semantic compositionality. The current paper aims at filling this gap by presenting a case study on the semantic composition of German LVCs of the ‘prospective family’ presented in (2)
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.
