Minimalist syntax

T’ theory:

Problems with X’:

Dividing S into 3

What to do with “to”?

Affix hopping : -ed, -s lands in the place of T

When sentence form = dictionary form we write person, number and tense of the verb, but there is no actual constituent written under T

Complementizers

That, if, whether, for (in for…to construction) etc

CP C+TP

Every TP is preceded by CP (in single clause affirmative sentences it is empty)

It is overt in questions and some subordinate clauses

Null constituents

• Subjects: in imperatives, colloquial speech, coordinating sentences of the same subject

Proof of reflective pronouns

• Complementizers

Overt nullification: I know you love syntax vs I know that you love syntax

Hidden nullification: She wanted him to apologize vs. She wanted more than anything FOR him to apologize

• T (see above)