Multiple sources for the German scandal construction
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Livio Gaeta
Abstract
The interaction of several cases of grammaticalization going back to different source constructions may have dramatic consequences on a linguistic system. This paper discusses the so-called German scandal construction, which consists of a verbal complex displaying a number of synchronic form-meaning mismatches. The scandal is solved if a diachronic point of view is adopted, which shows that the mismatches result from the intraference of two different source constructions expanded in the course of the German linguistic history, namely the Perfekt construction and the zu-infinitive construction.
Abstract
The interaction of several cases of grammaticalization going back to different source constructions may have dramatic consequences on a linguistic system. This paper discusses the so-called German scandal construction, which consists of a verbal complex displaying a number of synchronic form-meaning mismatches. The scandal is solved if a diachronic point of view is adopted, which shows that the mismatches result from the intraference of two different source constructions expanded in the course of the German linguistic history, namely the Perfekt construction and the zu-infinitive construction.
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Prelim pages i
- Table of contents v
-
Introduction
- On multiple source constructions in language change 1
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Articles
- Multiple inheritance and constructional change 19
- An inquiry into unidirectionality as a foundational element of grammaticalization 43
- Serving two masters 63
- Multiple sources for the German scandal construction 95
- Sources of auxiliation in the perfects of Europe 129
- Multiple roots of innovations in language contact 175
- Multiple sources and multiple causes multiply explored 205
- Subject index 223
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Prelim pages i
- Table of contents v
-
Introduction
- On multiple source constructions in language change 1
-
Articles
- Multiple inheritance and constructional change 19
- An inquiry into unidirectionality as a foundational element of grammaticalization 43
- Serving two masters 63
- Multiple sources for the German scandal construction 95
- Sources of auxiliation in the perfects of Europe 129
- Multiple roots of innovations in language contact 175
- Multiple sources and multiple causes multiply explored 205
- Subject index 223
