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Numerals and scalar implicatures

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Abstract

In this paper we explore the relation between the meaning of number denoting determiners (‘numerals’) and the polarity of the context in which they occur. We claim that when numerals are embedded in positive (i.e. Upward Entailing) contexts they are given an upper bounded (‘exactly’) reading more often than when they are embedded in minimally different Downward Entailing contexts. Since this corresponds to the behavior of scalar triggers, we suggest that the stronger interpretation of a numeral is really due to a Scalar Implicature. We review the outcome of two experiments, a questionnaire and a reading task where eye movements were recorded, which tested this claim empirically. Finally, we discuss these findings in light of the current approaches on the semantics of numerals, analyzing in detail the relation between the meaning of a numeral and scalar strenghtening.

Abstract

In this paper we explore the relation between the meaning of number denoting determiners (‘numerals’) and the polarity of the context in which they occur. We claim that when numerals are embedded in positive (i.e. Upward Entailing) contexts they are given an upper bounded (‘exactly’) reading more often than when they are embedded in minimally different Downward Entailing contexts. Since this corresponds to the behavior of scalar triggers, we suggest that the stronger interpretation of a numeral is really due to a Scalar Implicature. We review the outcome of two experiments, a questionnaire and a reading task where eye movements were recorded, which tested this claim empirically. Finally, we discuss these findings in light of the current approaches on the semantics of numerals, analyzing in detail the relation between the meaning of a numeral and scalar strenghtening.

Chapters in this book

  1. Prelim pages i
  2. Table of contents v
  3. Preface vii
  4. List of contributors ix
  5. Introduction 1
  6. The development of conversational competence in children with Specific Language Impairment 19
  7. The impact of literal meaning on what-is-said 43
  8. Discourse under control in ambiguous sentences 63
  9. Pragmatic children 79
  10. Adult response uniformity distinguishes semantics from pragmatics 101
  11. Numerals and scalar implicatures 129
  12. Meaning in the objects 151
  13. Blocking modal enrichment ( tatsächlich ) 177
  14. The hepatitis called … 199
  15. The role of QUD and focus on the scalar implicature of most 221
  16. Index 239
Experimental Pragmatics/Semantics
This chapter is in the book Experimental Pragmatics/Semantics
https://doi.org/10.1075/la.175.07pan

Chapters in this book

  1. Prelim pages i
  2. Table of contents v
  3. Preface vii
  4. List of contributors ix
  5. Introduction 1
  6. The development of conversational competence in children with Specific Language Impairment 19
  7. The impact of literal meaning on what-is-said 43
  8. Discourse under control in ambiguous sentences 63
  9. Pragmatic children 79
  10. Adult response uniformity distinguishes semantics from pragmatics 101
  11. Numerals and scalar implicatures 129
  12. Meaning in the objects 151
  13. Blocking modal enrichment ( tatsächlich ) 177
  14. The hepatitis called … 199
  15. The role of QUD and focus on the scalar implicature of most 221
  16. Index 239
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