The NEG elements in clause structures

Abstract

This article deals with the syntax of sentential negative elements in a number of languages. We start by investigating three kinds of sentential negative elements in Arabic. We argue that these elements occupy different positions in the hierarchic order of clause structure. Negative elements occur in positions higher than TNS, or between TNS and AG Rs, or project internal to the Predicate Phrase. Analysis of Arabic negative clauses reveals that although NEG elements project as phrasal heads, they are closely associated with TNS and AGRs. We propose a hypothesis of Adjunction movement to TNS/ NEG motivated by morphological requirement of the elements involved. Movements, which should apply before Spell-out, are necessary for Checking theory. The same procedure has been applied to negative clauses in English, French, Italian, etc. We claim that sentential NEG elements share in their essence certain simple properties at least in the languages investigated here.