Syntax-semantics mismatch and complex predicate formation in Formosan languages
Constructions involving verb sequences are diverse in Formosan languages. In
some languages (e.g. Kavalan, Seediq, Tsou), verbs in a sequence are simply
juxtaposed without any linking element, yielding serial verb constructions (SVC). In
others, verb sequences are intervened by linking element (e.g. Amis, Paiwan,
Mayrinax Atayal) (Huang 1997, Tang 1999, Chang 2006). In spite of the structural
diversity, verb sequences widely display a syntax-semantics mismatch across
Formosan languages, that is, matrix subjects are thematically selected by the
embedded verbs. In this lecture, I argue that the mismatch is due to the formation of
complex predicates rather than derived from raising. Evidence for the complex
predicate analysis include the sharing of argument and tense/aspect/mood marking of
the matrix verb with the embedded verb across Formosan languages and the
focus/voice harmony attested in Tsou SVCs.