The syntax of predicate nominals

Abstract

Predicate Nominals are non-referential but allow long-distance movement, which is a contradictory fact under Rizzi-Cinque's approach to movement in terms of referentiality. This paper argues that this discrepancy can be explained under the VP-internal subject hypothesis in conjunction with the Split INFL hypothesis. It is also argued that predicate nominals must receive Case, contrary to Chomsky's (1986) Visibility Condition. The existence of AGRoP is discussed in connection with predicate nominals. © 1992, The English Linguistic Society of Japan. All rights reserved.