Dynamic Antisymmetry: Movement as a Symmetry‐breaking Phenomenon

Abstract

Movement is a specific property of human languages and one that has at least implicitly been recognized in all linguistic theories. The most recent development posits that movement is forced by morphological requirements (Chomsky 1995). In this paper I will suggest a different approach to movement, suggesting that it is essentially related to the geometry of phrase structure. A weak version of Kayne's 1994 theory of the antisymmetry of syntax, namely ‘dynamic antisymmetry’ will be introduced. In the strong version, UG only allowed for antisymmetrical configurations, in terms of c‐command. Within dynamic antisymmetry, however, symmetrical configurations can be generated, provided that movement makes them antisymmetric before spell‐out. In other words, I will suggest that movement is a symmetry‐breaking phenomenon, i.e. it is triggered by purely geometrical factors as opposed to morphological ones. Data will range from small clause constructions (both in copular sentences and believe‐type verbs) to wh‐movement in interrogatives. Italian and English will be the major sources of examples.

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