Russian NPl-(BE)-NP2 Construction Revisited

Abstract

The article claims that 'NPI-NP2' construction should not be treated as same as 'NP-VP' construction. It has different origin and distinct structure. Unlike 'NP-VP' construction, which clearly has 'S-P' pattern, 'NPI-NP2' construction originates from the structure 'Discourse Topic + NP clause'. Due to the frequent overlapping of Discourse Topic and Sand the tendency toward 'subject language', Discourse Topic tends to be reinterpreted as S, resulting the transitory stage of'S + NP clause'. Finally, this unstable combination is remedied by the substitution of NP clause with P. Discourse Topic + NP clause > S + NP clause > S + P Each stage of the above process corresponds to and is reflected in each of the three semantic subtypes: Type 1: A = B Odentifying) Type II: A = b & A ∈ B (identifying and characterizing) Type ill: A ∈ B (characterizing) Agreement and case form may serve as the signal for the subtypes: agreement with NP2 signals Type 1; predicate instrumental signals Type III. Type II with its transitory instability is expected to be reinterpreted as Type III at least structurally and semantically