RETHINKING ARGUMENT STRUCTURE: A CONSTRAINT-BASED INTERFACE MODEL FOR ENGLISH DITRANSITIVES
Authors
Thomas Müller ()Files
Key Information
Journal
Published in Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026) of Omega Journal of Linguistics and Language Studies.
OMEGA Journal of Linguistics and Language Studies is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal dedicated to advancing research in linguistics, language, and communication. The journal provides a platform for scholars, educators, and researchers to publish high-quality work in both theoretical and applied aspects of language studies across diverse linguistic and cultural contexts.
Key Highlights:
- Peer-reviewed (Double-blind)
- Open Access Journal
- Monthly Publication
- International Scope
Frequency of Publication: Monthly
Languages: English, Polish and Russian
Publication Format: Electronic
ISSN (E): 3072-4678
About the JournalAbstract
The analysis of argument structure has traditionally been grounded in syntactic theory, particularly within generative frameworks where argument realization is treated as a projection of hierarchical structure. However, persistent empirical challenges—especially in English ditransitive constructions—suggest that purely structural accounts are insufficient. This paper develops a constraint-based interface model in which argument realization emerges from the interaction of syntactic configuration, lexical semantics, and usage-based pressures. Drawing on insights from generative linguistics, cognitive linguistics, and corpus-based studies, the analysis demonstrates that acceptability and interpretation in the English dative alternation are gradient rather than categorical. The proposed model integrates structural and interpretive constraints, offering a more flexible account of argument structure. The paper contributes to ongoing debates on the syntax–semantics interface and proposes a framework for future empirical validation.
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