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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Representation and Processing of the Inflected Infinitive in Brazilian Portuguese: an eye-tracking study

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Author(s):
Modesto, Marcello [1] ; Maia, Marcus [2]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Fed Rio de Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, RJ - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Journal article
Source: REVISTA DE ESTUDOS DA LINGUAGEM; v. 25, n. 3, p. 1183-1224, JUL-SEP 2017.
Web of Science Citations: 2
Abstract

In this paper, we examine the syntactic representation and processing characteristics of null subjects of inflected nonfinite clauses in Brazilian Portuguese (BP). After reviewing some literature on generative-syntax Control and discussing the peculiarities of BP diachrony, we present an eye-tracking experiment which proves that a control interpretation of null subjects of inflected nonfinite clauses is not only psychologically real in BP, but it is actually the preferred option in a task in which a strict comparison with arbitrary PRO is entertained. We then discuss the implications of the experiment to syntactic theory and the analysis of Control and speculate on the role of third factor explanations in the architecture of human language. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 12/06078-9 - Portuguese in time and space: linguistic contact, grammars in competition and parametric change
Grantee:Charlotte Marie Chambelland Galves
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants